Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Wayne Sussman
Published on 2024-03-14 07:11:40
KwaZulu-Natal
In KwaZulu-Natal, there were four by-elections held recently, none of which involved the uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) party. The outcome of these by-elections had a significant impact on the seat allocation of the respective councils, as well as how parties like the ANC, IFP, EFF, and Team Sugar were preparing for the upcoming MK election. Additionally, voter turnout and the potential influence of MK sympathizers on independent candidates in two wards in Newcastle were important factors to consider.
Newcastle, situated in the Amajuba district, is the largest municipality in the region and a key economic center in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Known for its steelworks, cement industry, and chrome chemical production, Newcastle saw a shift in power when the IFP won a ward from the ANC in February, solidifying its hold on the mayoral chain. The IFP received support from local parties like Team Sugar, as well as the DA, ActionSA, and the Freedom Front Plus (FF+).
Ward 12 in Blaauwbosch, Newcastle, saw the IFP secure a resounding victory in the by-election, beating the ANC by over 1,200 votes. The IFP’s dominance in this ward was evident as it swept all four voting districts, with challenges only from the ANC in one district. The by-election saw Team Sugar move up to third place, albeit losing a significant portion of its support in the ward, while the EFF dropped to fifth place.
In Ward 19 in Madadeni, Newcastle, the IFP also emerged victorious, winning by more than 800 votes and securing all three voting districts. This by-election saw the IFP making gains from Team Sugar and the EFF, resulting in a significant shift in the ward’s political landscape. Team Sugar, which had previously won the Simunye Cluster Hall voting district by a large margin, saw a drastic decline in support, tying with the EFF for third place.
Ward 23 in Madadeni, Newcastle, also witnessed an IFP victory, with the party winning by over 1,180 votes. The IFP’s success in this ward was attributed to its ability to garner support from multiple parties, including the ANC, Team Sugar, the EFF, and independent candidate Prince Mwali. This victory solidified the IFP’s position as the largest party in the Newcastle council.
In uMshwati, uMgungundlovu, Ward 6 saw the ANC maintain its stronghold with a landslide victory, winning 74% of the votes. The ANC’s success in this rural ward highlighted the party’s ability to secure support from multiple voting districts, ensuring its continued dominance in the region.
Moving to Gauteng, Ward 16 in Vereeniging Arcon Park, Emfuleni, saw the ANC retaining its hold on the ward, securing a critical win that would allow the coalition to maintain control of the municipality. The ANC’s ability to mobilize voters in key districts led to its victory over the PA, signaling the party’s strength in the region.
Finally, in Moretele, Bojanala, Ward 17 witnessed an overwhelming victory for the ANC, further reinforcing the party’s dominance in the Bojanala district. The ANC’s continuous success in this region bodes well for its prospects in upcoming national and provincial elections.
The recent by-elections in various regions of South Africa have showcased the evolving political landscape and the shifting dynamics between different political parties. The outcomes of these by-elections serve as a barometer for the upcoming national and provincial elections, highlighting key trends and potential challenges for the political landscape in South Africa.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
