IEC
By Mpho Moloi
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in Limpopo has announced its readiness for next week’s crucial by-elections in the Thabazimbi Municipality, scheduled for Wednesday. The by-elections will determine the leadership in all 12 municipal wards, following the municipality’s placement under administration in September due to ongoing instability since the 2021 local government elections.
A Competitive Political Landscape
The by-elections have attracted significant interest, with over 400 candidates from 21 political parties vying for 24 council seats. Among the contenders are five independent candidates, highlighting the diverse representation in this political contest.
Parties contesting the elections include major players such as the African National Congress (ANC), Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Democratic Alliance (DA), and Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus). Other contestants include the Patriotic Alliance (PA), African Transformation Movement (ATM), United Democratic Movement (UDM), Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), African Independent Congress (AIC), as well as local formations like the Thabazimbi Forum for Service Delivery and the Thabazimbi Residents Association.
Voter Registration and Demographics
According to Limpopo IEC Chairperson Nkaro Mateta, the municipality has a population of approximately 64,993 residents, with 51,399 registered voters.
Mateta highlighted key voter demographics, stating, “Among the registered voters, over 20,000 females are registered, while close to 30,000 males are registered. Significantly, more than 1,300 new voters aged 18 to 19 who did not participate in the 2024 general elections are registered.”
The inclusion of first-time voters underscores the importance of this by-election in shaping Thabazimbi’s future governance.
Candidate Representation
A total of 405 candidates will contest the by-elections, with a fairly balanced gender distribution. Mateta elaborated, “Of these, 214 are male candidates, and 191 are female candidates.”
The high level of participation reflects the urgency and importance of restoring stability and effective governance to the municipality.
A Municipality in Transition
The Thabazimbi Municipality was placed under administration following years of political instability and governance challenges, exacerbated by a fractured council since the 2021 elections. The by-elections aim to restore order and lay a foundation for service delivery and development.
The IEC has assured voters of its preparedness, emphasizing the importance of fair and credible elections. Security measures and logistical arrangements have been finalized to ensure a smooth voting process.
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