By Thabo Mosia
The Economic Freedom Fighters Student Command (EFFSC) has emerged as the leading party, securing the majority of seats in the recent Student Representative Council (SRC) elections at Vaal University of Technology (VUT).
The election results have prompted the South African Students Congress (SASCO) to challenge the process, claiming bias and irregularities in the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) ruling. The elections were held on Thursday, 24 October 2024.
Election Outcomes and Reactions
The VUT SRC elections witnessed EFFSC’s victory with 1,914 votes, narrowly beating SASCO, which garnered 1,805 votes. This close margin reflects a divided student body, with the EFFSC winning 49.5% of the vote, SASCO receiving 46.7%, and the SCO gaining a small share of 3.7%. The results underscore a pivotal shift in VUT’s student politics, where SASCO has traditionally maintained influence.
SASCO expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome, attributing the EFFSC’s victory to what they describe as “bias” and “unjust” practices by the IEC. In a statement addressed to students, SASCO outlined its grievances, alleging that the IEC prioritised the EFFSC’s interests in a manner they believe undermines democratic principles on campus.
SASCO’s Allegations of Bias and Unfairness
In an official statement, SASCO highlighted specific concerns regarding the IEC’s ruling. They claimed that after two unsuccessful attempts to constitute the SRC due to a deadlock, the IEC decided to allow EFFSC to select their positions first. SASCO argued that this decision was unconstitutional, stating it went against established governing principles. SASCO labelled the ruling as collaborative, biased, and unjust, asserting that it effectively disenfranchised their supporters.
The organisation vowed to hold a mass demonstration in response, encouraging students to stand united in opposition to what they consider an infringement on their democratic rights. The statement closed with a call to action, urging students to remain vigilant and assertive.
Social Media Reactions and Sihle Lonzi’s Statement
The response to the election results extended beyond the campus, capturing attention on social media. EFFSC member Sihle Lonzi took to Twitter to celebrate the outcome and challenge SASCO’s accusations. In a post directed at ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, Lonzi asserted, “We told @MbalulaFikile and his puppies not to celebrate the VUT results too early.” This statement reflects the intense rivalry between EFFSC and SASCO, as well as the wider political implications of the SRC elections.
Lonzi’s tweet highlights EFFSC’s confidence in their victory and their assertion of “tactical superiority,” claiming that they have successfully taken control of the entire SRC Executive. This statement encapsulates the power struggle between the two groups, as EFFSC positions itself as the dominant force within VUT’s student governance.
IEC’s Position and Response to Allegations
The IEC has responded to SASCO’s claims, maintaining that the election process was transparent, fair, and adhered to the university’s electoral guidelines. Chief Electoral Officer Thobile Thomas released the official election results on 3 November 2024, confirming the EFFSC’s majority win and noting that the SRC was constituted despite the deadlock.
The IEC has not announced any plans to reconsider or alter the election outcomes, stating that there is no substantial evidence to support SASCO’s allegations of bias. However, they indicated a willingness to cooperate with any formal inquiries should additional evidence emerge, aiming to uphold the credibility of the electoral system.
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