Municipal By-Elections in South Africa: April 2023

by
1 min read
south africa municipal by-elections Cape Town

The African National Congress (ANC) managed to retain its seat won in the 2021 Municipal Elections, but the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) each won a seat that was previously held by the ANC in the provinces of Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and Western Cape.

EFF Wins in Free State

In ward 17, Dihlabeng Municipality – FS192, Free State, the EFF won with 56.94% of the total votes cast, and Malefetsane Shadrack Mokoena became the new councilor with a voter turnout of 60.66%. The EFF’s vote share increased compared to the 2021 Municipal Elections, when it received 39.69% of the votes.

IFP Wins in KwaZulu-Natal

In ward 19, uMhlabuyalingana Municipality – KZN271, KwaZulu-Natal, the IFP won with 52.90% of the total votes cast, and Phumlani Sifiso Mabika became the new councilor with a voter turnout of 65.23%. The party’s vote share also increased compared to the 2021 Municipal Elections, when it received 41.09% of the votes.

ANC Retains Seat in Western Cape

In ward 05, Overstrand Municipality – WC032, Western Cape, the ANC retained its seat won in the 2021 Municipal Elections with 36.67% of the total votes cast. The new councilor, Bongiwe Gloria Nombula, won in the ward with a voter turnout of 32.58%. However, the party’s vote share decreased from 56.36% in the 2021 Municipal Elections.

Rescheduling of By-Election in KwaZulu-Natal

The by-election in ward 15, Mandeni Municipality – KZN291, KwaZulu-Natal, originally scheduled for April 26th, 2023, has been rescheduled for May 24th, 2023. The rescheduling was due to a change in the proclamation date of the by-election by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

Shift in Voting Patterns

The voter turnout was significant in both the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, with over 60% and over 65%, respectively. The by-elections’ results show a shift in voting patterns, with the EFF and IFP increasing their vote share while the ANC’s vote share decreased.

Encouraging Citizen Participation

The Electoral Commission has encouraged citizens to continue participating in the electoral process and exercising their right to vote. For more information, citizens can visit the Electoral Commission website or follow them on social media.

Tags:

You might be interested in

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

water supply maintenance
Previous Story

Planned Water Supply Disruptions in Cape Town

western cape drought water restrictions
Next Story

Western Cape Drought: A Brief Overview

Latest from Blog

racism slavery

A Disturbing Incident: Recollection of Slavery in a High School Incident

Students at a Cape Town high school were involved in a disturbing mock auction that resembled scenes from slavery. The incident, filmed and circulated on social media, triggered investigations by school officials and widespread indignation. A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the students’ actions were not in line with the values and principles of the department or the school. The incident highlights the need for ongoing dialogues about racial equality, mutual respect, and education on the lasting effects of historical crimes such as slavery.

ireland vfs global

The Evolving Global Travel Landscape: A New Chapter for South African and Botswana Nationals

South African and Botswana nationals now need to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, following the Irish Department of Justice’s appointment of VFS Global as its official partner for travellers from these two countries. The decision was made in response to a surge in International Protection applications from South African and Botswana nationals, and is aimed at aligning Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The move is part of a broader trend of countries modifying their immigration policies to balance security considerations, economic requirements, and aspirations to maintain an opendoor policy.

electric fence south africa

“Spearheading Safety: South Africa’s Revised Electric Fence Regulations”

South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.

homelessness cape town

The Unfolding Homelessness Crisis in Cape Town’s Central Business District

The homelessness crisis in Cape Town’s CBD is becoming increasingly urgent, with hundreds of homeless individuals facing eviction. The city’s proposed solution, the Safe Spaces Initiative, provides shelter, meals, and vocational training to homeless individuals and is funded by the city. While some support the initiative as a way to preserve the dignity of the destitute, others argue for more comprehensive solutions, such as repurposing vacant buildings for permanent housing and addressing health and employment issues. The decision of how to tackle this issue has farreaching implications, making it a critical moment for the city.

south africa democracy

Examining the Path of Democracy: South Africa’s Transformation Over Thirty Years

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the need for scientific and evidencesupported strategies to handle socioeconomic complexities, identified key issues integral to the nation’s developmental dialogue, including countering the impacts of climate change, capitalizing on the advantages of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and supporting peace initiatives on the continent. The conference reflected on the struggles, achievements, and aspirations of a nation striving to uphold principles of justice, equality, and social transformation.