Excitement is building as two crucial municipal ward by-elections are set to take place in Mbhashe Municipality, Eastern Cape, on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. These by-elections carry significance as they will determine the new representatives for Ward 01 and Ward 02 in this region.
This year’s by-elections are notable for featuring a diverse pool of candidates, with one independent candidate and nine candidates from five different political parties vying for your vote. Let’s take a closer look at the candidates and the wards they are contesting:
The race for Ward 01 features a total of six candidates. Luleka Margaret Tonise is running as an independent candidate, while the ANC, ATM, EFF, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, and UDM each present their own hopefuls.
| Candidate | Party |
|---|---|
| Luleka Margaret Tonise | Independent |
| Ayabonga Tyatyaza | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Ntombokuqala Rolihlahla | African Transformation Movement (ATM) |
| Yonga Phandulwazi Mgayi | Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) |
| Yamkela Makangela | Pan Africanist Congress of Azania |
| Hilda Vuyelwa Luke | United Democratic Movement (UDM) |
Ward 01 was previously represented by the ANC, but it became vacant due to the resignation of the former councillor. In the 2021 Municipal Elections, the ward had a voter turnout of 31.03%, making it an area of considerable interest for all political parties.
Ward 02 also sees a highly competitive race, with candidates from the ANC, ATM, EFF, and UDM contending for the position left vacant by the previous ANC councillor’s unfortunate passing.
| Candidate | Party |
|---|---|
| Penny Ntombifuthi Tomose | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Mbonisi Wiseman Mgushelo | African Transformation Movement (ATM) |
| Bongani Manzenze | Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) |
| Mluniseleli Rufus Maxaulana | United Democratic Movement (UDM) |
The voter turnout in Ward 02 during the 2021 Municipal Elections was 48.16%, indicating significant civic engagement in this area.
Voters in Mbhashe Municipality should be aware that the by-elections are scheduled to take place from 7 am until 7 pm. It’s important to note the earlier closing time compared to the usual 9 pm closing time for elections. Ensure you cast your vote within this specified timeframe to make your voice heard.
These by-elections present an opportunity for residents of Mbhashe Municipality to have a direct impact on their local government. The elected councillors will play a vital role in representing the interests and needs of their respective wards, making this a crucial democratic process.
As the candidates make their final appeals and preparations, it’s up to the voters to decide the future leadership of their wards. Your vote matters, so be sure to participate in this democratic exercise on September 13, 2023, and make your voice count in Mbhashe Municipality. Stay tuned for the election results, which will be announced after the polls close at 7 pm.
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