The results of the by-elections that took place in the Mangaung Metro on Tuesday (18/07) and Wednesday may have a strong influence on decisions made by council in future.
These elections took place in the four wards previously led by the ANC members who had been dismissed from the party. This came after they voted against the ANC caucus’ wishes on the outcome of the election of a speaker. In the event, Maryke Davies of the DA was voted by council as the new speaker of the Mangaung Metro.
The four candidates – Mpho Mokoakoa (ward 29), Lehlohonolo Moqolo (ward 49), Makoa Lelala (ward 50) and Chabeli Frank Rampai (ward 7) – stood as independent members in the by-election. They were opposed by candidates from eight political parties, including strong opposition by the ANC, DA, and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
Altogether, 27 candidates stood for candidacy in the four wards
Prof. Sethulego Matebesi, academic head of the Department of Sociology at the University of the Free State (UFS), says it is very important that stability returns to the Mangaung Metro.
“Vacancies have a huge impact on the functioning of council.”
He says the four dismissed ANC members returning to stand independently in the by-elections will be a worrying sign for the ANC.
If all or any of the independent councillors are elected, it will be a first for this council.
“If any of them succeed, we might see a similar trend in future.”
During the 2021 municipal elections, the voter turnout in ward 50 was 45%, 38% for ward 49, 29% for ward 29, and 38% for ward 7.
The ANC had 51 seats in the council of 101 after the 2021 municipal elections.
Voting stations were open until 21:00, with results to be announced today (20/07).
