Voting got off to a slow start in Tlhabane outside Rustenburg on Wednesday, where seven political parties are battling it out in a by-election – one of eleven taking place across the country.
Other by-elections are in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Kwazulu-Natal as well as the Free State and political parties are using them as part of preparation for the 2024 National General Elections.
The ward being contested includes the informal settlement of Yizo-Yizo following the death of an ANC ward councillor.
A resident who was not sure if he’s going to vote, Sedireng Monnana, believes the community is used as voting cattles. However, Monnana is hoping whoever takes over the ward will stay in touch with residents.
The ANC is confident it will retain Tlhabane despite a fierce challenge from opposition parties.
The ANC’s Provincial Head of Elections Gaoage Molapisi was on site and said they’re confident of victory.
“We’re happy with the turnout so far, starting from yesterday as at least we had close to 600 registered special voters, and we’re certain that many of them have voted for the ANC. Even today, we’re still hopeful even though there are challenges, we’re speaking to the people in Yizo Yizo and many who have registered, have already voted,” said Molapisi.
The EFF has the second biggest representation in the Rustenburg council and hopes to keep taking seats from the ANC.
EFF’sNorth West provincial secretary, Papiki Bauile said they believe that with this by-elections, unlike the others, the turnout will be higher due to some serious political interest and as the EFF, they believe that their people will remove the ANC from power in ward 11.
An organiser for Tsogang Civic Movement, Seun Manyaku, is also hoping that his formation will benefit from an anticipated large turnout.
