All set for hotly contested by-elections in the WC
TWO by-elections will see political parties face off on Wednesday in ward 17 in the Cape Winelands region, Drakenstein municipality and ward 38 in the Cape Metro.
Both vacancies are due to the resignation of ward councillors.
The ward 17 by-election will be contested by candidates from the ANC, DA, EFF, Freedom Front +, the Africa Restoration Alliance (ARA) and an independent candidate.
In ward 38, the ANC, ARA, DA, EFF, GOOD, PAC, the United Democratic Movement and an independent candidate are up against each other.
The Independent Electoral Commission said there are 15 656 registered voters in ward 38 eligible to participate in the by-election and 4 278 registered voters in ward 17.
ANC head of elections for the Western Cape, Cameron Dugmore said in all the by-elections since November 2021, they have shown consistent improvement and this was what they were building on.
The ANC’s candidate in ward 28 is Suzanne Zumana and their ward 17 candidate is Francisca Dreyer.
“In Drakenstein we aim to improve our performance and establish a greater presence on the farms to build for the future.
“In ward 38 we are confident that our candidate will win and that we will maintain this ward.
“Today we held a very successful Siyanqoba Rally where Paul Matshatile spoke along with our candidate.”
DA provincial leader Tertuis Simmers said after several months of intensive campaigning in ward 17 and ward 38, they were “more than ready” for the by-elections on Wednesday.
“We are very proud of our DA candidates, Lorraine Cyster and Siyamthemba Ndlezana.
“Lorraine has a track record of working hard in ward 17 and we are confident that she will take the ward to new heights when elected on Wednesday.
“In ward 38 in Cape Town, under the former ANC councillor, service delivery in this ward stagnated, but in Siya, voters have the option to vote for a DA councillor who can provide the full range of services and opportunities to all residents.”
IEC provincial electoral officer Michael Hendrickse reminded voters of the importance of voting, as they were being given an opportunity to choose a representative in the respective municipalities.
Voting stations will open at 7am and close at 9pm.