Mbhashe Municipality to Hold Municipal By-Elections on 13 September 2023

On 13 September 2023, Mbhashe Municipality in the Eastern Cape will hold by-elections for two crucial municipal wards. The elections will see a total of 10 candidates competing for the positions, with one independent candidate and nine candidates from five political parties.

Ward 01 By-Election

Ward 01 in Mbhashe Municipality (EC121) has attracted a diverse array of contenders. The by-election was necessitated by the resignation of the previous councillor who was under ANC representation. During the 2021 Municipal Elections, Ward 01 recorded a voter turnout of 31.03%.

The candidates vying for the Ward 01 position include:

• Luleka Margaret Tonise (independent candidate)
• Ayabonga Tyatyaza (African National Congress)
• Ntombokuqala Rolihlahla (African Transformation Movement)
• Yonga Phandulwazi Mgayi (Economic Freedom Fighters)
• Yamkela Makangela (Pan Africanist Congress of Azania)
• Hilda Vuyelwa Luke (United Democratic Movement)

Ward 02 By-Election

Ward 02 of Mbhashe Municipality (EC121) also has a vacant position due to the untimely death of the previous ANC councillor. During the 2021 Municipal Elections, Ward 02 recorded a voter turnout of 48.16%.

The candidates competing for the Ward 02 position include:

• Penny Ntombifuthi Tomose (African National Congress)
• Mbonisi Wiseman Mgushelo (African Transformation Movement)
• Bongani Manzenze (Economic Freedom Fighters)
• Mluniseleli Rufus Maxaulana (United Democratic Movement)

Candidates’ Goals and Visions

Each candidate brings their unique perspective, goals, and visions for the wards they seek to serve. Luleka Margaret Tonise, the independent candidate for Ward 01, aims to address local issues and promote community-driven solutions. Ayabonga Tyatyaza, representing the ANC in Ward 01, seeks to continue implementing the party’s policies. Ntombokuqala Rolihlahla from the ATM focuses on transforming the local community through responsible governance, while Yonga Phandulwazi Mgayi of the EFF advocates for economic freedom and social justice. Yamkela Makangela of the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania strives to create a united and prosperous society, and Hilda Vuyelwa Luke from the UDM aspires to foster transparent and accountable governance.

Similarly, the candidates for Ward 02 have distinct goals that reflect their party ideologies. Penny Ntombifuthi Tomose from the ANC aims to strengthen the party’s presence in the ward. Mbonisi Wiseman Mgushelo of the ATM seeks to introduce transformative policies to benefit the community, while Bongani Manzenze from the EFF plans to empower the ward’s residents through economic freedom. Lastly, Mluniseleli Rufus Maxaulana of the UDM hopes to promote integrity and transparency in local governance.

The upcoming by-elections in Mbhashe Municipality offer an opportunity for the residents to elect new representatives who will champion their interests and needs. The candidates will work to communicate their visions and garner support from the community. This democratic exercise provides a chance for the community to evaluate their choices and elect new representatives who will work in the best interests of the wards.