MIDDELBURG – The countdown has begun for the eagerly awaited by-elections in Steve Tshwete’s Ward 10, which includes the Eastdene and Hlalamnandi areas.
With only a few days remaining, four political parties are vigorously campaigning to secure the majority of votes in the upcoming by-elections, scheduled for August 28, 2024.
The by-elections are set to fill the seat in the Steve Tshwete council vacated by the late ANC councillor Gift Maseko, who passed away on June 9, 2024 after a prolonged illness.
The African National Congress (ANC) aims to maintain its dominance in the ward, while the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Middelburg and Hendrina Residents Front (MHFR), and uMkhonto weSizwe, which was formed in December last year, are all determined to make their mark by securing the majority of votes.
With the exception of the Democratic Alliance (DA), all parties have announced their candidates: Macaleni Mnisi for the ANC, Gift Tshehla for the EFF, Xolani Shambell for uMkhonto weSizwe, and Ena Pilodia for MHFR.
Local ward elections give residents the chance to influence decisions on local development, services, and community well-being. Through active participation, voters play a vital role in shaping the future of their neighbourhoods and ensuring their voices are heard in local governance.
Special voting arrangements are available for eligible voters who apply and receive approval. Requests for special votes were open from August 12 to 16, 2024, with special voting scheduled for August 27, 2024, between 09:00 and 17:00.
On election day, August 28, 2024, polling stations will be open from 07:00 to 21:00. Voters can cast their votes at the Eastdene Community Hall and the Christian Bible Church in Eastdene.
