From Azwindini to politics. Actor Gabriel Temudzani, best known for his iconic role as Chief Vhafuwi Azwindini on Muvhango, has become the latest high-profile television personality to join ActionSA, adding his name to a growing list of familiar faces who have entered the political arena under Herman Mashaba’s party.
Temudzani joins television presenter and former Sizok’thola host Xolani Khumalo, who was announced as ActionSA’s Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate in 2025.
The latest move comes as ActionSA ramps up its preparations for the 2026 local government elections, with Temudzani now becoming one of the party’s most recognisable entertainment-industry recruits.
ActionSA announced the 46-year-old actor’s membership this week.
Temudzani, who played Azwindini on Muvhango from 2000 until the soapie ended in 2025, said his decision to enter politics had been a long time coming.
“I decided to soberly and consciously embrace ActionSA,” Temudzani said. “I feel compelled and committed to stand up and participate politically.”
Why he chose ActionSA
While Temudzani remains involved in the entertainment industry, he said his concern about South Africa’s political direction motivated him to become more actively involved.
“One is compelled to be privy to politics and affected by it,” he said. “We might choose not to be active, but those in charge will make decisions that affect us, hence, here we are. I’ve always been involved in politics.”
The actor revealed that he had previously campaigned for another political party, although he did not name it, but said he now believes ActionSA is better positioned to bring about change.
“I feel that the green party is the only vehicle that can steer us away from our current downward trajectory,” Temudzani said.
He described ActionSA as a party he believes can usher in a new political dispensation focused on people and service delivery.
“It is the only party that can usher in a new dispensation that is purpose-driven, people-centered, and capable of delivering much-needed services to the majority of our people, particularly black South Africans. ActionSA inspires real hope for our nation.”
‘I am an independent individual’
Temudzani also addressed the criticism celebrities and public figures often face when they enter politics.
“People often treat public figures like robots or assume they don’t have their own voice,” he said. “I am an independent individual, and I make my own choices.”
The actor said he could no longer remain on the sidelines while watching the country’s challenges unfold.
“As a South African, I see what is happening in our country, and much of it could have been avoided,” he said.
Temudzani said he was prepared to face criticism if it meant making a meaningful contribution to South Africa.
“If we listen to the armchair critics of the world, we won’t get anywhere,” he said. “Giving in to that deprives you of a sense of fulfillment and keeps you from contributing toward meaningful political change.”
A growing list of familiar faces
Temudzani’s arrival follows the political rise of Xolani Khumalo, who became a household name through Sizok’thola before being unveiled as ActionSA’s candidate for Ekurhuleni mayor in the 2026 local government elections.
The party has also continued recruiting prominent South Africans from outside traditional politics. In July, former BOSA Gauteng MPL Ayanda Allie joined ActionSA and was appointed its 2026 election campaign ambassador for issue-driven campaigning in Gauteng.
Temudzani’s move therefore comes as ActionSA seeks to broaden its public profile ahead of the local government elections.
‘It’s not about positions’
Despite his newfound political role, Temudzani said he was not joining ActionSA because he wanted a particular political position.
“For me, it’s not about positions, it’s about serving the people of South Africa,” he said.
He criticised what he described as corruption, self-interest and organisational failures within established political structures.
“We’ve seen so many political parties promise to rebuild and recover, yet produce no tangible results. All you see is corruption, self-interest and organisational collapse. That must be denounced.”
He added: “We need a new political vehicle to move us forward, and I believe ActionSA is that vehicle.”
Temudzani said improving municipalities and basic service delivery should be among the country’s priorities.
“We need to clean up our republic and our cities,” he said. “Negligence has been normalised for far too long.”
He also raised concerns about sewage spilling into streets and questioned why municipalities continue to struggle despite having approved budgets.
“Budgets are passed, yet nothing changes. That simply cannot continue.”
With the local government elections ahead, Temudzani urged South Africans to make their votes count.
“The time to choose wisely is now.”
