Yenepad 2006 SOUTH AFRICAN Election

ELECTION UPDATE 2006
SOUTH AFRICA
Number 3 30 April 2006

contents

LOCAL GOVERNMENT
ELECTION DAY
KwaZulu-Natal 1
Free State 6
Eastern Cape 17
Western Cape 25
Northern Cape 29
Gauteng 39
North West 47
Mpumalanga 50

EISA Editorial Team
Jackie Kalley, Khabele Matlosa, Denis
Kadima

Published with the assistance of the
OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATION –
SOUTH AFRICA

poll observers. A total of concern in KwaZulu-Natal
KWAZULU-NATAL 1100 observers were during the elections but that
deployed to various polling these “could not have
Shauna Mottiar stations on election day. compromised the free
Centre for Policy Studies Observers indicated that for expression of voters and the
Election Observation and the most part, voting stations fairness of the March 1st
Monitoring opened on time. Of those 2006 local government
that did not, there was a elections.” As a result the
Observation and monitoring delay of half an hour or so. elections were deemed free,
during the local government In some areas voting queues fair and credible.1 According
elections in KwaZulu-Natal began to form well before to the report the incidences
was officially carried out by voting stations opened. of concern included the
the Community Law and Despite this, however, the delivery of incorrect ballot
Rural Development Centre general trend was that voting papers to some voting
(CLRDC). The CLRDC stations received fewer stations, thus holding up the
worked in collaboration with voters than were registered. voting process. Political
Justice and Peace in co- The official observer mission
ordinating the recruitment, report claimed that there 1
Preliminary Observer Mission
training and deployment of were a few incidences of Report, Langelihle Mtshali,
CLRDC, 3 March 2006

election update 2006 South Africa number 3

party campaigning at some • Mzo Mavundla- Msinga longer than theirs.”2 De Haas
entrances to polling stations activist killed on 9 argues that there are still
was also reported. The usage February areas in KwaZulu-Natal
of computer scan machines • Three members of the where people are too afraid
and the voters roll to check Duma family – ANC to support the party of their
whether voters were supporters in Durban choice for fear of being
registered was reported at killed on 10 February victimised or intimidated.
some polling stations to have • Musa Masondo –
delayed voting and Nongoma ward candidate According to political
complaints ensued about killed on 16 February analyst Laurence Piper, “The
standing in long queues in • Zakhele Cele – 2006 local government
the hot sun. There were also Shobashobane councillor elections in KZN were
reports that at some polling killed on 4 March along memorable for confirming
stations, voters were told with three colleagues, the beginning of a new era of
they had to be introduced to Nkosingiphile Mavundla, ANC politics at the expense
the local inkosi (chief) before Moses Gambushe and of the IFP. As such, they
they could cast their votes. Mandla Cele promise greater peace and
There were also disputes at a • Masikito Mzila- prosperity, but also throw up
couple of polling stations Ntembisweni candidate new challenges of
over ballot papers not killed on 22 March accountability and
tallying with the number of • Veli Nyawo – inclusion.”3 Indeed the IFP
ballot papers issued. Ngwavuma treasurer has, in the wake of the
killed on 23 March elections, incurred a range of
Inter- and Intra-Party setbacks while the ANC has
• Ephraim Mkizhe –
Relations Emhubeni branch had to face the challenge of
chairman killed on April consolidating local
Political violence in government’s mandate of
KwaZulu-Natal before and 2 along with colleague
Nathi Dladla providing equitable service
after the election is still delivery and fostering public
alarmingly pervasive • Nine ANC Mpangeni
participation at local levels.
according to violence township supporters
monitor, Mary de Haas. killed between December
Growing debate within IFP
Indeed the African National 2005 and March 2006
ranks regarding leadership
Congress (ANC) has gone so • Mzo Sokhulu – uMsinga
style and dwindling electoral
far as to propose an voter killed on 7
support prompted the party
intelligence driven strategy February because he said
to convene a special
to root out what it has termed he was going to vote for
congress in Umlazi during
‘war lords’ in the province – the ANC.
the first week of April. Some
this strategy would stem days before the congress,
from the Department of The Inkatha Freedom Party IFP leader Mangosuthu
Safety and Security. The (IFP) responded to the Buthelezi was quoted as
ANC claims that 23 of its ANC’s intelligence driven saying, “I am ready to walk
members and politicians proposal with the claim that out of this weekend’s IFP
have been assassinated in the the ANC was merely trying special conference, never to
province over the last couple to score political points by come back on the public
of months: politicising the killings in the stage of politics. I am not
• Nsizwazethu Thusi – province. An IFP spokesman offering my resignation to
Umshati ward 6 claimed that “The truth is seek a new statutory
candidate killed on 9 that we have a list (of
February assassinated members) 2
Mercury, 7 April 2006
3
Witness, 4 March 2006

2


mandate. I am offering to Thulasizwe Buthelezi added those of the IFP to attract
resign in order to encourage that the poor election results support…We now realise
an open debate about our were due to “widespread that everything that was put
party’s identity purpose and electoral fraud and vote to us, that the IFP was not
function.”4 Indeed Buthelezi rigging”. He added that the democratic, that it was a
made good on his claim by IFP did not believe their leadership cult etc. was in
resigning during the complaints to the IEC were reality what we had
congress only to be re- dealt with satisfactorily8 joined.”10 An IFP spokesman
elected by the IFP leadership claimed that many IFP
and the deliberating The IFP has also faced members had been ‘taken for
committees some two hours various external challenges a ride’ by NADECO and
later. According to political in the form of the splinter now, that they had realised
analyst Zakhele Ndlovu a group, the National this, would be returning to
change of leadership for the Democratic Convention the IFP in their majority.11
IFP is not possible at this (NADECO). NADECO was
stage because there are no formed by ex IFP members Challenges for the New
clearly defined successors to who accused IFP leadership Local Authorities
Buthelezi and his having led of being dictatorial and
the party for some thirty failing to observe good The ANC, freshly victorious
years makes him somewhat democratic practice. at local level in KwaZulu-
immovable.5 Indeed NADECO then went to Natal, faces multiple
although the party’s establish itself as an challenges pertaining to
secretary general, Musa opposition party in the service delivery and
Zondi and national chairman, elections. Since then, participation. Political
Zanele Magwaza could be however, it has accused the analyst Laurence Schlemmer
potential candidates for IFP of planting “spies” claims that more than 50%
leadership, they are both within its ranks. This has of South African
known as “die hard lead to NADECO suspension municipalities are
Buthelezi loyalists”.6 With of its eThekweni deputy “dysfunctional” or “severely
regards the IFP’s poor regional chairman, challenged”.12 He adds that
showing during the local Mandlakayise Magubane as these municipalities suffer
government elections, blame he is suspected of from poor management of
was laid squarely on the IEC corresponding with the IFP finances and failings in their
and the lack of state on NADECO matters.9 Fears performance of service
resources. Buthelezi at NADECO of IFP delivery and development
proclaimed that “the entire infiltration were first raised tasks. Schlemmer asserts that
state apparatus with all its when three of its members problems around service
organs and branches were defected back to the IFP delivery also exist in the
twisted, warped and claiming that, “We have as a stronger municipalities and
perverted to become matter of principle and with that some 6000
instruments of the ruling a clear conscience, decided demonstrations and protests
party’s electoral agenda and we cannot fool ourselves any over poor service delivery
machinery.”7 He went on to longer and we want to return have taken place over the
argue that a lack of finances to our political home... To us past year by residents
impaired IFP campaigning. NADECO is a one man fan groups, activists and
IFP Youth Brigade leader club with no independent voluntary organisations.
identity, trying desperately to
4
Sunday Tribune, 9 April 2006
use the same principles as 10
Sunday Tribune, 23 April 2006
5 11
Mercury, 7 April 2006 ibid
6 8 12
Sunday Times, 9 April 2006 Mercury, 10 April 2006 Sunday Tribune, 26 February
7 9
Witness, 10 April 2006 Mercury, 4 May 2006 2006

3


According to Piper some The Foreman road squatter participation. Unfortunately
15% of these nationwide camp, not far away houses this situation seems set to
protests have occurred in 8000 squatters who share 5 continue in KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal. Piper claims toilets. The irony in this, he under the new
that KwaZulu-Natal has adds, is that the toilets were administration. Ward 80 in
recorded 700 legal protests built by the apartheid Umlazi is a case in point.
over service delivery in the government. Zikode points Shortly after the elections
last couple of years and 132 out that Durban ratepayers Umlazi residents protested
illegal ones. money is used to build some violently against the re-
16000 homes a year but that election of ANC councillor,
Testimony from Durban this cannot meet the backlog Bhekisisa Xulu in ward 80.
squatter residents illustrates of the 800 000 shack They barricaded roads and
the challenges facing local dwellers in Durban. set tyres alight and police
authorities in eThekweni Furthermore, he points out had to intervene with tear
metro alone. A member of a that politicians’ claims that gas and rubber bullets. The
20 000 strong movement shack dwellers should not protesters argued that Xulu
Abahali Base Majondolo live in illegal settlements that had rigged the vote; they
representing squatters in 35 are not serviced are added that they did not want
areas, expressed his concerns unhelpful, at best, because Xulu representing them as he
regarding housing and these people have no choice. had been in office for the
service delivery. S’bu Most of them are from rural past ten years but failed to
Zikode a resident of the areas and have flocked into deliver on basic services.
Kennedy Road squatter the metro for employment. Protesters also claimed that
camp argued that acquiring Zikode contends that, “This despite the fact that they
the attention of the city’s movement was established were members of the ANC,
political leaders was a out of anger. Politicians run they had never been part of
challenge on its own. His around like mad asking for the party’s candidate
movement was forced to our votes today, and nomination process when
become assertive after the tomorrow when you ask wards chose their candidates
realisation that community them to keep the promises for elections. They claimed
leaders were commanding no they made, they set the that they were merely
respect from municipal police on you.”13 He adds informed by the ANC’s
officials. Movement leaders that the council’s attitude to branch executive committee
arranged for the council his movement has been less in the area that the party had
offices to be invaded by than conciliatory. Ever since selected the candidate. An
some twenty homeless its establishment Abahali’s Umlazi protester stated, “We
families. Recently the marches have been banned, were never given the chance
movement won its motion to and police have tear-gassed, to choose who we wanted to
be able to protest after beaten and arrested its stand as a candidate for our
notifying authorities as members. ward.”14 The main
opposed to officially motivation for the local
requesting permission. Inherent in the above government election system
Zikode claims that his testimony are issues not just incorporating a constituency
movement is advocating for of equitable service delivery representative element in the
homes and better services. but also of local authorities form of ward councillors is
He says that 6000 people failing to make meaningful to ensure that local
live in his squatter camp and contact with constituencies communities are accurately
share 170 toilets among in order to foster represented in their
them. municipalities. In the Umlazi
13
“Speaking Out for the Poor”,
14
Mercury, 8 March 2006 Daily News, 3 March 2006

4


ward 80 case, it is unlikely committee because of normal. Ndwandwe then
that local community intense fighting over the notified the office of Local
members’ needs will be nomination of mayoral Government MEC resulting
represented effectively by a candidates. The dissolution in the dissolution of the
councillor whom they did took place two weeks after council.17 Ndwandwe’s
not legitimise. A further the elections. An ANC position was then
problem highlighted by ward member was quoted as temporarily filled by
80 is that local communities saying that the committee corporate services manager,
do not seem to completely was dissolved because of its Bongani Thusi who only
understand the role their “failure to exercise its occupied the position for a
ward councillor is supposed political authority”. He week before calling in sick
to play or the limitations of added that this was a serious and being hospitalised. The
his/her mandate. Claiming problem in the ANC.15 shifts and vacuum in the
that “he failed to deliver municipal management
services” suggests that there The IFP has also experienced position has severely
is an expectation that a ward administrative setbacks in its affected the running of the
councillor has the means and councils after the elections. municipality. Backlogs have
authority to single-handedly Just days after its accumulated and links
confer services on the inauguration, the crisis prone between administrative and
community. A ward Abaqulasi (Vryheid) political components have
councillor’s role is, in fact, municipality voted out its broken down.18 The IFP led
to communicate his/her municipal manager Bamba uPongolo municipality has
community’s needs within Ndwandwe. Local also been experiencing
the municipality thus Government MEC Mike problems after the elections.
ensuring that decisions made Mabuyakhulu warned the Political bickering among
regarding services take into council that it would be held council members forced the
consideration community responsible should party’s oversight committee
concerns and fulfil Ndwandwe’s exit package be to call for the resignation of
community needs. Ward found to be irregular. It is Mayor Bheki Mncwango and
councillors are also rumoured that the golden his brother, council speaker
mandated to encourage handshake on the grounds of Rasta Mncwango. The
community participation in ‘negative trust’ would cost Mncwango brothers had
the affairs of local the municipality R750 000. occupied the same positions
government through ward Reports abound, however, before the 2006 elections but
committees and public that Ndwandwe’s dismissal failed to win the wards they
meetings. was an act of revenge by had contested and were left
councillors after they out of the council because
Aside from issues of claimed he was instrumental they did not feature on the
representation and fostering in the council’s dissolution party’s original proportional
participation the ANC at in November 2005.16 Reports representation list. The list
local level, KwaZulu-Natal are that Ndwandwe, who was however, reviewed by
is also struggling with was the council’s accounting Albert Mncwango (IFP
administrative challenges officer, had advised national organiser) enabling
which can only hinder the councillors about a number them to return to the council
smooth roll out of services. of activities that were taking in their former positions.
Among these is infighting place which were illegal. This caused uproar among
within municipal executive The council however councillors in the
committees such as the continued to operate as municipalities who refused
Umgungundlovu district
municipality. The ANC was 15
Mercury, 21 March 2006 17
Witness, 21 March 2006
forced to dissolve the 16
Witness, 24 March 2006 18
Witness, 3 May 2006

5


to acknowledge the promises are in line with the effect, it has been hailed as a
Mncwangos as legitimate current national campaign to way to align the institution
office holders.19 Disruptions strengthen community of traditional leadership with
such as these clearly have a participation in local elected public
negative bearing on the government as well as representatives. The
general functioning of the through ward councillors and legislation also paves the
municipality effectively ward committees. Special way for the establishment of
slowing down delivery of focus is to be placed on district houses of traditional
services and de-prioritising municipalities where there leadership. These will
issues of participation. have been protests over poor effectively mean that
service delivery. KwaZulu- traditional councils which
Both the ANC and IFP Natal has been identified as a were once appointed by
election manifestos province where ward traditional leaders will now
highlighted the need to committees are severely consist of democratically
improve service delivery and under utilised as a channel elected members. According
community participation at through which communities to the Department of Local
local levels. The ANC can lodge their complaints to Government, Housing and
pledged to increase skills and their municipalities.22 The Traditional Affairs eleven
capacity of municipal role of ward councillors also local houses will be
politicians and officials in needs to be strengthened. established by the end of
order to make their roles June and the provincial
more effective. It also Interface between Local house will be established by
promised to strengthen Authorities and the the end of July. The
popular forums such as ward Traditional Leadership Department is also to focus
committees and IDP Structures on training traditional
consultations in order to leadership about good
facilitate public Another pressing issue for
20 local authorities in democratic governance and
participation. Likewise the partnering with local
IFP pledged to provide ward KwaZulu-Natal is that of
traditional authorities. politicians. The legislation,
councillor training and to in keeping with democratic
work closely with During the early part of
2006, the provincial principles, calls for greater
communities in terms of participation by women and
consultation and legislature passed the
KwaZulu-Natal Leadership youth within traditional
communication in order to leadership circles.23
ensure that community views and Governance Act. The
influence municipal legislation recognises the
decisions.21 These election Zulu monarch and accords it FREE STATE
the responsibility of
appointing amakhosi Angelique Harsant &
19
Mercury, 13 April 2006 (traditional leaders) in the Constanze Bauer
20
African National Congress 2006 province. The legislation is Department of Political
Election Manifesto and Mamledia Science, University of Free
Johnson, DDP Political Forum,
also expected to make an
impact on service delivery as State
Local Government Elections,
Durban, January 15 2006 it sets out conditions for The Counting Process
21
Inkatha Freedom Party 2006 traditional leaders and
Local Government Election elected councillors to work Procedures for the sorting of
Manifesto and Dr Buthelesi, DDP
Political Forum, Local
together in advancing the the ballot papers and the
Government Elections, Durban, 15 cause of development. In counting of votes are set out
January 2006 Inkatha Freedom
23
Party 2006 Local Government Local Government Elections, Budget 2006/2007 KZN
Election Manifesto and Dr Durban, 15 January 2006 Ministry of Local Government,
22
Buthelesi, DDP Political Forum, Daily News, 14 March 2006 Housing and Traditional Affairs

6


in the Municipal Electoral thereafter in bundles of 2006a:1). The ANC took
Regulations No. R. 848 of 22 ten such packages; and control of all 25
August 2000, as amended by finally, municipalities in the Free
Notice No. R. 848 of 23 • The bundles and the State with more than 80% of
August 2003, ‘Municipal remaining ballots are the vote with 47.23% of the
Electoral Regulations’. then counted with the registered voters in the Free
(Hendrickse 2006:2). In totals of each party or State exercising their right to
terms of Appendixes 20A candidate recorded on vote (IOL 2006b:1). This
and 20B of the Municipal specified forms (Form was in comparison to the
Electoral Regulations (as MEC 17: Result form – 48,9% obtained in the 2000
stated in Hendrickse Party List count and Local Government Elections
2006:69), the process is as Form MEC: Result (Coetzee 2006:2). In the
follows: Form18 – Ward count). 2000 Local Government
• Papers are first sorted Elections, the ANC won all
according to the type of Results 20 municipalities and
ballot papers used at the The results were announced enjoyed 72, 11% support
voting station; at the IEC Headquarters on with the other parties
• After the papers of each Saturday, 4 April 2006 in together only enjoying 27,
ballot are counted, the Pretoria by IEC Chairperson 89% of the vote (IEC
totals are then compared Dr. Brigalia Bam who Leading Party Report
with the statement of the declared the elections free 2000:1) The highest turnout
presiding officer (Form and fair. At the same event, was at the Golden Gate
MEC 11); President Mbeki Highlands National Park
• Papers are examined to congratulated the IEC on where 66.46% of the
ascertain whether they overseeing the elections as registered voters voted
should be rejected and if well as political parties who followed. The results were
that is the case, the had accepted defeats and had determined by the IEC in
rejected papers are kept not taken recourse to the terms of section 64(6) of the
to one side; courts. President Mbeki Local Government
• The remaining papers are emphasised the importance Municipal Electoral Act, No.
sorted face up according of local government “as a 27 of 2000 and are provided
to each party and ward critical area where all the in the following tables.
candidate; They are promise made by people
bound in elastic bands in during their campaign had to
bundles of ten and be delivered on” (IOL,
Table 1: Leading party overall report
Party Name Valid Votes¹ % Support Seats won² % Seats won
African National Congress (ANC) 1,392,337 76,66% 516 67,72%
Democratic Alliance (DA) 227,050 12,50% 83 10,89%
Freedom Front-Plus (FF) 40,745 2,24% 19 2,49%
Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC) 29,902 1,65% 17 2,23%
Dikwankwetla Party of South Africa (DPSA) 27,305 1,50% 9 1,18%
African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) 10,412 0,57% 7 0,92%
Independents 7,069 0,39% 3 0,39%
United Christian Democratic Party (UCDP) 9,855 0,54% 3 0,39%
United Democratic Movement (UDM) 2,972 0,16% 2 0,26%
Azanian People’s Organization AZAPO) 2,6192 0,14% 2 0,26%
Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) 1,270 0,07% 1 0,13%
Belastingsbetalersvereniging van Parys (BVP) 1,437 0,08% 1 0,13%
Phumela Ratepayers’ Association (PRA) 2,120 0,12% 1 0,13%
United Independent Front (UIF) 1,454 0,08% 1 0,13%
Other 59,800 3,29%
TOTAL 1,816,347 100,00% 665
¹ Valid Votes include both Ward and PR votes
² Seats won include both Ward and PR seats
Source: IEC – Leading Party Overall Report as at 2000/03/04.

7


Table 2: Table outlining the percentage of PR votes only obtained by the top three parties in the
specified municipality
% VD’s
Municipality(Previous name in brackets) 1st party % 2nd party % 3rd party %
declared
FS 161 LETSEMENG (Koffiefontein) 100 ANC 78 DA 13 FF-Plus 4
FS 162 KOPANONG (Trompsburg) 100 ANC 77 DA 15 PAC 4
FS 163 MOHOKARE (Zastron) 100 ANC 80 DA 10 PAC 5
FS 171 NALEDI (Dewetsdorp) 100 ANC 74 DA 14 PAC 8
FS 172 MANGAUNG (Bloemfontein) 100 ANC 72 DA 16 FF-Plus 4
FS173 MANTSOPA (Ladybrand) 100 ANC 82 DA 10 PAC 4
FS181 MASILONYANA (Theunissen) 100 ANC 83 DA 10 FF-Plus 4
FS 182 TOKOLOGO (Dealesville) 100 ANC 78 DA 12 FF-Plus 7
FS 183 TSWELOPELE (Hoopstad) 100 ANC 84 DA 13 FF-Plus 2
FS 184 MATJHABENG (Welkom) 100 ANC 80 DA 15 PAC 1
FS 185 NALA (Bothaville) 100 ANC 85 DA 6 FF-Plus 3
FS 191 SETSOTO (Senekal) 100 ANC 81 DA 12 PAC 2
FS 192 DIHLABENG (Bethlehem) 100 ANC 77 DA 12 PAC 5
FS 193 NKETOANA (Reitz) 100 ANC 79 DA 11 PAC 6
FS 194 MALUTI A PHOFUNG (Qwa-Qwa) 100 ANC 80 DPSA 11 DA 3
FS 195 PHUMELELA (Vrede) 100 ANC 80 PRA 8 DA 6
FS 201 MOQHAKA (Kroonstad) 100 ANC 77 DA 14 FF-Plus 4
FS 201 NGWATHE (Parys) 100 ANC 77 DA 13 PAC 3
FS 204 METSIMAHOLO (Sasolburg) 100 ANC 65 DA 21 UDM 5
FS 205 MAFUBE (Frankfort) 100 ANC 75 DA 7 PAC 7
Source: SABC News, 2006-03-05: 1-2.

Table 3: Summary of seat allocation per district council (DC)
Table 3.1: DC 16 – XHARIEP
DC 40 % Total Seats available to Municipality: 6
DC 40% Total % Seats
Party Valid Votes % Votes
Seats won
ANC 22,210 78,02% 5 83,33%
DA 3,727 13,09% 1 16,67%
PAC 1,016 3,57% 0 0,00%
FF-Plus 996 3,50% 0 0.00%
ACDP 518 1,82% 0 0,00%
TOTAL 28,467 100,00 6 100,00
Source: IEC – MEC 33 as at 2000/03/04.

Table 3:2 DC 17 – MOTHEO
Party Valid Votes % DC40% Total Seats % Seats
Votes won
ANC 123,384 73,54% 13 72,22%
DA 26,225 15,63% 3 16,67%
FF-Plus 5,750 3,43% 1 5,56%
UCDP 3,650 2,18% 1 5,56%
PAC 3,615 2,15% 0 0,00%
ACDP 2,579 1,54% 0 0,00%
ID 1,372 0,82% 0 0,00
Black Consciousness Forum 638 0,38% 0 0,00%
UDM 571 0,34% 0 0,00%
TOTAL 167,784 100,00 18 100,00
Source: IEC – MEC33 as at 2000/03/04

8


Table 3.3 DC 18 – LEJWELEPUTSWA

Party Valid Votes % Votes DC40% Total Seats % Seats won
ANC 113,034 81,08% 12 80,00%
DA 17,980 12,90% 2 13,33%
FF-Plus 2,503 1,80% 1 6,67%
PAC 2,301 1,65% 0 0,00%
ACDP 1,451 1,04% 0 0,00%
UDM 1,208 0,87% 0 0,00%
ID 928 0,67% 0 0,00%
TOTAL 139,405 100,00% 15 100.00%
Source: IEC – MEC33 as at 2000/03/04.

Table 3.3 DC 18 – THABO MOFUTSANYANE

ANC 128,054 80,61% 13 81,25%
DA 11,863 7,47% 1 6,25%
DPSA 9,018 5,68% 1 6,25%
PAC 4,087 2,57% 1 6,25%
FF-Plus 3,724 2,34% 0 0,00%
ACDP 2,111 1,53% 0 0,00%
TOTAL 158,857 100,00% 16 100.00%
DMA DC 60 % Total Seats available to Municipality: 1
ANC 87 87,00% 1 100.00%
DA 13 13,00% 0 0.00%
TOTAL 100 100,00% 1 100.00%
Source: IEC – MEC33 as at 2000/03/04.

Table 3.4 DC 20 – FEZILE DABI (Northern Free State)

ANC 80,829 74,23% 10 76,92%
DA 16,082 14,77% 2 15,38%
FF-Plus 4,004 3,68% 1 7,69%
PAC 3,288 3,02% 0 0,00%
UDM 2,110 1,94% 0 0,00%
AZAPO 1,390 1,28% 0 0,00%
ACDP 1,188 1,09% 0 0,00%
TOTAL 108,891 100,00% 13 100,00%

9


Table 4: Summary of seat calculation per municipality

In cases where a ward is uncontested, the PR for the party will be doubled for the overall seat
calculation.
Seats Calculated = (A) Ward Seats = (B) PR List Seats = (A-B)
FS 161 – LETSEMENG (Koffiefontein): Seats 10
Party Valid Votes % Votes Total Seats Ward Seats PR List Seats % Seats Won
ANC 11,400 74,19% 8 5 3 80,00%
DA 1,906 12,40% 1 0 1 10,00%
INDEPENDENT 735 4,78% 0 0 0 0,00%
ACDP 538 3,50% 1 0 1 10,00%
FF-Plus 451 2,94% 0 0 0 0,00%
PAC 336 2,19% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 15,366 100% 10 5 5 100,00%
FS 162 – KOPANONG (Trompsburg): Seats 14
ANC 20,325 76,68% 11 7 4 78,57%
DA 4,044 15,26% 2 0 2 14,29%
PAC 1,021 3,85% 1 0 1 7,14%
FF-PLUS 928 3,50% 0 0 0 0,00%
ACDP 137 0,52% 0 0 0 0,00%
INDEPENDENT 51 0,19% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 26,506 100,00% 14 7 7 100,00%
FS 163 MOHOKARE (Zastron): Seats 10
ANC 12,537 80,82% 8 5 3 80,00%
DA 1,550 9,99% 1 0 1 10,00%
PAC 772 4,98% 1 0 1 10,00%
FF-Plus 406 2,62% 0 0 0 0,00%
ACDP 132 0,85% 0 0 0 0,00%
UDM 116 0,75% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 43,447 100,00% 10 5 5 100,00%
FS 171 NALEDI (Dewetsdorp): Seats 8
ANC 8,241 64,03% 5 3 2 62,50%
INDEPENDENT 2.122 16,49% 1 1 0 12,50%
DA 1,565 12,16% 1 0 1 12,50%
PAC 589 4,58% 1 0 1 12,50%
FF-Plus 228 1,77% 0 0 0 0,00%
ACDP 125 0,97% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 13,870 100,00% 8 4 4 100,00%
FS 172 MANGAUNG (Bloemfontein): Seats 89
ANC 215,284 71,51% 65 37 28 73,03%
DA 48,477 16,09% 15 8 7 16,85%
FF-Plus 10,8918 3,62% 3 0 3 3,37%
UCDM 6,205 2,06% 2 0 2 2,25%
PAC 5,6206 1,87% 2 0 2 2,25%
INDEPENDENT 5,037 1,67% 0 0 0 0,00%
ACDP 3,632 1,21% 1 0 1 1,12%
DPSA 1,771 0,59% 1 0 1 1,12%
ID 1,675 0,56% 0 0 0 0,00%
AZAPO 1,031. 0,34% 0 0 0 0,00%
Black Consciousness Forum 855 0,28% 0 0 0 0,00%
UDM 595 0,20% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 301,043 100,00% 89 45 44 100,00%
FS 173 MANTSOPA (Ladybrand): SEATS 16
ANC 19,437 79,60% 13 8 5 81,25%
DA 1,809 7,41% 1 0 1 6,25%
INDEPENDENT 1,059 4,34% 0 0 0 0,00%
PAC 852 3,49% 1 0 1 6,25%
ACDP 746 3,06% 1 0 1 6,25%
FF-Plus 514 2,11% 0 0 1 0,00%
TOTAL 24,417 100,00% 16 8 8 100,00%

10


FS 181 MASILONYANA (Theunissen): Seats 20
ANC 23,575 82,85% 17 10 7 85,00%
DA 2,830 9,95% 2 0 2 10,00%
FF-Plus 1,023 3,60% 1 0 1 5,00%
PAC 666 2,34% 0 0 0 0,00%
ACDP 331 1,16% 0 0 0 0,00%
INDEPENDENT 28 0,10% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 100,00% 20 10 10 100,00%
FS 182 TOKOLOGO (Dealesville): Seats 8
ANC 8,058% 76,49% 6 4 75,00%
DA 1,209% 11,48% 1 0 12,50%
FF-Plus 714 6,78% 1 0 12,50%
PAC 322 3,06% 0 0 0,00%
INDEPENDENT 232 2,20% 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 10,535 100,00% 8 4 100,00%
FS 183 TSWELOPELE (Hoopstad): Seats 14
ANC 16,695 75,24% 11 6 5 78,57%
DA 2,725 12,28% 2 0 2 14,29%
INDEPENDENT 2,231 10,05% 1 1 0 7,14%
PAC 334 1,51% 0 0 0 0,00%
FF-Plus 205 0,92% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 22,190 100,00% 14 7 7 100,00%
FS 184 – MATJHABENG (Welkom): Seats 72
ANC 142,550 78,75% 57 31 26 79,17%
DA 27,302 15,08% 11 4 7 15,28%
INDEPENDENT 2,716 1,50% 1 1 0 1,39%
PAC 2,652 1,47% 1 0 1 1,30%
FF-Plus 1,957 1,08% 1 0 1 1,39%
ACDP 1,542 0,85% 1 0 1 1,39%
Independt Civic Assoc. of SA 920 0,51% 0 0 0 0,00%
UDM 760 0,42% 0 0 0 0,00%
ID 619 0,34% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 181,018 100,00% 72 36 36 100,00%
FS 185 NALA (Bothaville): Seats 24
ANC 33,265 84,68% 20 12 8 83,333%
DA 2,522 6,42% 2 0 2 8,33%
PAC 1,193 3,04% 1 0 1 4,17%
FF-Plus 1,137 2,89% 1 0 1 4,17%
UDM 639 1,63% 0 0 0 0,00%
ACDP 352 0,90% 0 0 0 0,00%
ID 175 0,45% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 39,283 100,00% 24 12 12 100,00%
FS 191 SETSOTO (Senekal): Seats 33
ANC 40,045 81,09% 27 17 10 81,82%
DA 6,012 12,17% 4 0 4 12,12%
PAC 1,061 2,15% 1 0 1 3,03%
FF-Plus 863 1,75% 1 0 1 3,03%
ID 791 1,60% 0 0 0 0,00%
UDM 496 1,00% 0 0 0 0,00%
NDM 118 0,24% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 49,386 100,00% 33 17 16 100,00%
FS 192 – DIHLABENG(Bethlehem): Seats 37
ANC 44,872 77,56% 29 16 13 78,38%
DA 7,283 12,59% 5 3 2 13,51%
FF-Plus 2,357 4,07% 1 0 1 2,70%
PAC 2,309 3,99% 1 0 1 2,70%
ACDP 681 1,52% 1 0 1 2,70%
NDC 152 0,26% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 57,854 100,00% 37 19 18 100,00%

11


FS 193 – NKETOANA (Reitz): Seats 18
ANC 22,501 78,56% 14 9 5 77,78%
DA 3,064 10,70% 2 0 2 11,11%
PAC 1,726 6,03% 1 0 1 5,56%
FF-PLUS 1,097 3,83% 1 0 1 5,56%
INDEPENDENT 252 0,88% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 28,640 100,00% 18 9 9 100,00%
FS 194 MALUTI A PHOFUNG (Qwa-Qwa): Seats 68
ANC 125,539 80,36% 55 33 22 80,88%
DPSA 16,516 10,57% 7 0 7 10,29%
DA 5,620 3,60% 2 1 1 2,94%
ACDP 1,850 1,18% 1 0 1 1,47%
PAC 1,768 1,13% 1 0 1 1,47%
INDEPENDENT 1,607 1,03% 0 0 0 0,00%
IFP 1,270 0,81% 1 0 1 1,47%
AZAPO 1,247 0,80% 1 0 1 1,47%
FF-Plus 809 0,52% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 156,226 100,00% 68 34 34 100,00%
FS 195 PHUMELELA (Vrede): Seats 14
ANC 20,269 80,08% 11 7 4 78,57%
PRA 2,120 8,38% 1 0 1 7,14%
DA 1,524 6,02% 1 0 1 7,14%
FF-Plus 894 3,53% 1 0 1 7,14%
PAC 504 1,99% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 25,311 100,00% 14 7 7 100,00%
FS 201 MOGHAKA (Kroonstad): Seats 50
ANC 53,862 75,89% 38 21 17 76,00%
DA 9,568 13,48% 7 4 3 14,00%
FF-Plus 2,526 3,56% 2 0 2 4,00%
PAC 2,127 3,00% 2 0 2 4,00%
ACDP 1,223 1,72% 1 0 1 2,00%
INDEPENDENT 697 0,98% 0 0 0 0,00%
AZAPO 609 0,86% 0 0 0 0,00%
Socialist Party of Azania 363 0,51% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 70,975 100,00% 50 25 25 100,00%
FS 203 NGWATHE (Parys): Seats 38
ANC 47,146 77,42% 30 17 13 78,95%
DA 7,708 12,66% 5 2 3 13,16%
PAC 2,185 3,59% 1 0 1 2,63%
FF-Plus 2,068 3,40% 1 0 1 2,63%
BVP 1,437 2,36% 1 0 1 2,63%
UDM 311 0,51% 0 0 0 0,00%
INDEPENDENT 38 0,06% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 60,893 100,00% 38 19 19 100,00%
FS 204 METSIMAHOLO (Sasolburg): Seats 36
ANC 38,514 65,41% 24 14 10 66,67%
DA 12,404 21,06% 8 4 4 22,22%
UDM 2,972 5,05% 2 0 2 5,56%
FF-Plus 1,521 2,58% 1 0 1 2,78%
UIF 1,454 2,47% 1 0 1 2,78%
PAC 722 1,23% 0 0 0 0,00%
AZAPO 685 1,16% 0 0 0 0,00%
ACDP 513 0,87% 0 0 0 0,00%
INDEPENDENT 100 0,17% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 58,885 100,00% 36 18 18 100,00%
FS 205 MAFUBE (Frankfurt): Seats 17
ANC 20,624 75,05% 13 9 4 76,47%
DA 2,081 7,57% 1 0 1 5,88%
PAC 1,940 7,06% 1 0 1 5,88%
FF-PLUS 1,440 5,24% 1 0 1 5,88%
AZAPO 1,372 4,99% 1 0 1 5,88%
INDEPENDENT 22 0,00% 0 0 0 0,00%
TOTAL 27,479 100,00% 17 9 8 100,00%

12


It appears that despite poor missed by the presiding from Lesotho were also
service delivery and officer who had allocated present to train as observers
corruption among 7283 votes to the ACDP and as part of an exchange
councillors, the ANC still 831 votes to the DA. A programme between the two
enjoys the majority of recount settled the matter. countries. Three of them
support from the population The UDM and the Freedom were placed in Mangaung
as had been the case during Front Plus also complained whilst one was placed at the
the 2004 National Election. that their parties were not IEC Head Office in
The DA came second, included on the ballot papers Bloemfontein (Interview
followed closely by the PAC in the districts they were with Mr Mepha 19 April
and the FF-Plus in third and contesting. In response, the 2006).
fourth places respectively IEC indicated that these
(Coetzee 2006:2). What is parties had not met the After the ballot count the
worrying, however, is that deadline. Problems in the results revealed a resounding
despite the ‘Power of Media’ Naledi municipality flared success for the ruling party,
Campaign run by the IEC, up again after the elections. the ANC.
less than 48% of the Municipal councillor’s With the dawn of the 1994
registered 22 million voters houses were torched in elections, the media both
cast their vote and an Dewetsdorp. The house of nationally and
estimated 6 million people acting manager Lydia internationally viewed
did not even bother to Morobela was destroyed in a pictures of long rows of
register (Ngonyama 2006:1) fire while the house of voters waiting to exercise
another councillor was partly their democratic vote.
Post-Election Disputes destroyed in a fire. A vehicle Whereas a large number of
at this house was also voters had turned out to vote
According to the Provincial destroyed. Problems were for the 1994 election, the
Electoral Officer for the Free aggravated when residents current election reveals a
State, Mr Chris Mepha, only protested and disrupted the remarkable decline in voting
2 disputes had taken place inauguration of the newly which is largely due to voter
during the election with both elected mayor and apathy. This became very
of them occurring at councillors. In spite of the evident during the 2006
Dihlabeng (Interview with disruptions Motlatsi Motlui elections.
Mr Mepha 19 April 2006). was elected mayor.
After the elections in the Provincial government The local government
Free State the Independent officials stepped in when election has been conducted
Electoral Commission (IEC) problems arose after Thato freely and fairly and some
ordered a recount in the Free Khoase the municipal voters are still very
State. The main reason was manager was suspended passionate about their right
that there were cases of non- (Internet, 2006; Naledi to cast their vote and to have
adherence to the provisions councillors and Webb, a say in the governance of
of the electoral laws. Mr 2006:3). South Africa. However,
Chris Mepha, the Provincial underlying this passion and
Electoral Officer, ordered a Election Observers and participation there are
recount because the Monitoring murmurs in the political
Democratic Alliance in environment which speak of
Bethlehem disputed the No international observers dissatisfaction, distrust,
vote’s tally which they felt witnessed the 2006 Local corruption and increasing
had left them far behind the Government elections in the frustration. This is especially
ACDP. The complaint had Free State. Four local evident in the 2006 local
proved valid because it was organisations observed the government elections (Sauer,
found that votes had been elections whilst four people 2006:1).

13


In the Free State especially, province, it was difficult to bigger support for the ANC.
the elections were held sketch a scenario depicting Voters such as Jan van der
against a similar background the outcome of the 2006 Merwe and Claude
and within a tense political local government elections. Jenkinson are prominent
environment. A post-election It is clear that the ANC has ANC candidates in
preview clearly shows that managed to maintain the Bloemfontein and they have
this environment had a loyal supporters of the party inspired others to support the
definite effect on the to such a degree that the ANC because they are
electorate. Prior to the 2006 party had managed to take dedicated to delivering a
election, especially since all 25 of the municipalities in contribution to the country
2004, political tensions have the Free State with a clear (Coetzee, 2006:5). In
been brewing especially in majority of 76.7% of the Bloemfontein there were
areas such as the Eastern and votes. In second place was also a number of posters
Central Free State. It is the Democratic Alliance featuring white female
always important to reflect with 12.47% and the candidates in a variety of
on the results of an election Freedom Front Plus came wards (Internet, 2006…ANC
in order to identify important third with 2.7% of the votes takes Free).
issues, challenges, patterns, cast. With this in mind, it is
and tendencies which could interesting to note the Many students in
have significant influences comments made by Charlotte Bloemfontein did not
on the governance of South Lobe, secretary of the ANC exercise their democratic
Africa and on voter in the Free State in an right to vote in the local
participation and voting interview with a reporter, municipal elections. Voter
behaviour in subsequent Gert Coetzee (2006:5), from apathy among young people
elections. Under the current a local newspaper, Die is worthy of notice and is a
local government system, Vloksblad. During this cause for concern. Many said
50% of municipal seats are interview Lobe responded to they were not registered and
allocated to ward the question as to who would simply lacked interest in
councillors, while the win the election. Lobe said voting. Those who were
remaining 50% are allocated that the ANC would win registered were registered in
to Proportional because the majority of their home towns and found
Representational (PR) voters in the Free State are it impossible to go home just
councillors. The number of black people of whose vote to vote. Some students said
votes the party gets in the and allegiance the party is they were not sure if they
election will determine the assured. Besides that, the were registered and lacked
number of PR councillors political environment in the interest to find out if this
obtained by the party. A South Africa has changed was the case. Besides
meeting is called after reflecting a non-racial problems experienced with
fourteen days to select electorate resulting in a registration, many students
officers. The meeting, which potential to draw votes from lacked the interest to vote.
is presided over by the the white electorate. As a
municipal manager, firstly result of talks with these Two aspects emerged
has to appoint the Speaker of potential voters, the ANC is strongly, namely the need for
the Council, an Executive confident of drawing votes information and political
Mayor as well as electing an from all population groups. literacy. A cause for concern
Executive Committee Lobe also felt that votes is the general feeling among
(Sauer, 2006:1). traditionally cast in favour of the youth and especially
the New National Party among students that it is
In the light of the discontent (NNP), which have dropped meaningless to vote. Student
experienced with from 170 000 in 1994 to apathy extends to political
municipalities in the 8000 in 2004 has seen a parties. They feel that there

14


is no interaction with This form of communication were confused as to where
political parties and the only as well as the use of e-mails they had to cast their votes.
time they emerge is when was also used by other
they want one’s vote. parties. Charlotte Lobe from This problem had been
Students feel neglected by the ANC reasons that the addressed during the national
political parties who seldom, pre-election strategy of their election to a degree as
if ever, show an interest in party was sufficient to gain pictures were printed on
them (Fourie, 2006:6). votes and they saw no need ballot papers but this was not
to send SMS messages on the case during the local
It is interesting to note that the day of the election to government elections. These
the electoral system of potential voters. The voters indicated that they
student representatives on Freedom Front Plus also saw had wanted to vote and
the campus of the University a need to get more involved regarded it as important as it
of the Free State is based on with students and launched a had implications for service
political parties and not student branch of its party on delivery, housing, job
individuals. There is also a the campus just a month creation and future security
student parliament on the after the local government (Van Wyk, 2006:6).
campus where political elections took place. Lydia
parties are represented by Young, spokesperson for the Overall the IEC had received
elected students. However, Independent Electoral 50 complaints concerning
more can and should be done Commission (IEC) said that the local government results.
to address the political it was in order for political This was an increase on the
illiteracy of the students. parties to canvas for votes on number of complaints
Election Day if it occurred received after the national
When interviewed political outside the voting stations elections in 2004.
parties were asked to (Versluis, 2006:9).
Courtney Sampson, who is
comment on the issue of The use of more modern and from the IEC, explained that
youth apathy, Mr Abrie fun communication to reach most of the complaints
Killian, chairperson of the and appeal to the youth is resulted from
ACDP on the campus of the one solution but what about misunderstandings
University of the Free State, the numerous students who concerning the electoral
made the suggestion that do not have the means to process.
students and the youth in access this modern
general should be informed communication. A multi- He said that many new
through modern sectoral approach should be participants experienced
communication mediums followed to reach the youth problems with issues
such as SMS text messages who after all are the people pertaining to the electoral
which encourage students who will lead South Africa process with the result that
firstly to vote and secondly into the future. they complained. In response
to vote for a particular party. he indicated that many
Killian reasons that the use It is interesting to note that it problems were related to
of modern technology will is not only the youth in the where parties placed their
appeal to the youth and rural areas that are focus. The strongest focus
especially to students and experiencing the challenges point was the winning or
will have the effect of of political literacy. Farm losing of the party rather
encouraging them to workers in Koffiefontein for than on the nature of
participate in the democratic instance, who are illiterate, multiparty democracy which
process as well as adding an found the voting process advocates a spirit of
element of fun to the confusing. As they can participation (Cape Times:
process. neither read nor write they Internet, 2006).

15


The ANC is determined to facing Free State accountability by councillors
make local government work municipalities in the fiscal will be high on the agenda.
in the Free State. In order to year ahead. Newly elected councillors
achieve this, problematic should act with honesty and
municipalities have been In their agenda to address integrity with their skills
identified and the ANC will these problems, local utilised for the upliftment of
intervene to support them. government will launch an the community. ANC
Pledges of more resources intensive programme to spokesperson, Smuts
and trained personnel as well improve municipal Ngonyama said the ANC
as the employment of more governance thereby will work towards making
competent managers and enhancing performance and local government a powerful
technicians have been promoting accountability. instrument of change
received. The ANC has also Included in the (Citizen, 2006:6).
promised to address issues improvements envisaged by
where violent protests were Mafareka was the issue that President Mbeki is adamant
encountered. Perpetrators all municipalities were to re- that local government will
will be dealt with and if negotiate municipal work. He has expressed the
necessary disciplined. In manager’s contracts with a conviction that all mayors
some instances, the post- cut-off date of 1 July. A and councillors are expected
election days were marred strategic plan includes to uphold the ruling party’s
by sporadic outbreaks of facilitating state structures vision of “fundamental
service delivery protests. and governance social transformation” with
Disgruntled residents even arrangements to the degree which the party intends to
damaged property and shops that municipalities would be bring a better life for all
in the town of Frankfort. better supported and (Internet, 2006).
Violent demonstrations in monitored. A further
De Wetsdorp in the Southern advantage would include References
Free State escalated to a measures to strengthen the
level of extreme concern legislative and fiscal ANC takes Free State. 2006.
Internet.
when the home of Mr environment for local (http://www.news24.com/news24/
Mopho Morobela of the government. R522 million SouthAfrica/Politics/0,6119,2-7-
Naledi municipality has also been set aside for 12_1892094,00.ht... Assessed on 4
(Dewetsdorp) was petrol the erection of houses. A March 2006.)
bombed and there was firing thousand of the envisaged
ANC makes clean sweep in Free
at the home of ANC council 12000 housing units will be State. 2006. IOL: 3/3/2006b.
member Mr Paulus Mifi. On allocated to women (http://www.iol.co.za/general/news
22 March 2006 the first contractors to commemorate /newsprint.php?art_id=qw1141408
sitting of the municipality the 50th anniversary of the 441442B242&sf= Accessed on
was disrupted. Violent 1956 women’s anti-pass 3/31/2006).
protests also occurred in demonstrations (Internet, ANC mayors must deliver or
Wepner and Van 2006: New Plans for…). leave- Mbeki. 2006. IOL:
Standensrus. According to 3/3/2006b.
Joel Mafareka, the MEC of It is important to take note of (http://www.iol.co.za/general/news
local government and the transformation of local /newsprint.php?art_id=qw1426054
4178B256&sf= Accessed on
housing there are now plans government in South Africa 4/6/2006).
on the table for Free State and the challenges this third
municipalities. Mafareka tier of government has to Cape Times. 2006. IEC receives
admitted in his budget face and manage. On the one complaints. Internet Iol.
speech that there are side the ANC, after winning (http://www.iol.co.za/indexpho?set
_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=20060
challenges from every aspect all the seats in the province, 6308004844805... Accessed on the
of municipal management has ensured the voters that 3/16/2006).

16


Citizen. 2006. Councillors will act
honestly-ANC. 7 March, p6. New Plans for Free State EASTERN CAPE
municipality-MEC. 2006. Internet-
Coetzee, G. 2006. VS-ANC IOL. Dr. Thabisi Hoeane
verwag groot glimlagge in (http://www/iol.co.za/general/new
verkiesing. Die Volksblad. 20 s/newspruit.php?art_id=qwl11432
Rhodes University
January, p5. 13666193B242&sf= Accessed on
the 26/4/2006). . Introduction
Coetzee, G. 2006. ANC verreweg Ngonyama P, 2006. Percy
sterkste in VS ná plaaslike Ngonyama on the 2006 Local In this third submission to
verkiesing. Die Volksblad, 6 Government Elections. Centre for
March,p2 . Civil Society.
the Election Update, we
(http://www.nu.ac.za/ccs/default.a review post-election
Fourie, M. 2006. Min studente sp?3,28,10,2462 Accessed on processes in the Eastern
maak kruisies Die Volksblad, 2 4/22/2006) Cape province. We focus on
Maart, p6 . the counting process and
SABC News, 2006 Local
Hendrickse M, Olivier L & Venter Elections 2006: Free State –
announcement of results,
A, 2006. Handbook on Legislation Votes. post- election disputes,
and Regulations for South Africa’s (http://www.sabcnews.com/Featur election observation and
Local Government Elections 2006. es/elections_2006/results/race_for monitoring, outlining the
Pretoria: IEC & Johannesburg: _votes/0,2374,2,00.html. patterns of the results as well
EISA. Accessed on 4/22/2006).
as their political
IEC Local Government Elections Sauer, D. 2006. Spesiale implications. We also
2000 – Leading Party Report Free Promosie: Munisipale verkiesing consider the challenges
State. UV-man gee siening oor die confronting the new
(http://www.elections.org.za/iecwe verkiesing. Die Volksblad. 2 municipalities.
b/Other/LGE_Reports_LeadParty_ March, p1.
Free State.html Accessed on
4/18/20006) Versluis, J.M. 2006. Partye se The Counting Process and
SMS’e laaste probeerslag. Die Announcement of Results
Independent Electoral Volksblad, 2 March: p9.
Commission (IEC): Free State The post-election processes
Local Government Elections Van Wyk, J. 2006. VS-
Results. Leading Party Overall plaaswerkers haakvas met
of counting ballot papers and
Report. 2006-03-04 stemmery. Verward oor waar hulle the announcement of results
kruisies moet trek. Die Volksblad, went relatively smoothly in
Independent Electoral 2 March: p6. the province as in most areas
Commission (IEC): Free State of the country, despite the
Local Government Elections Webb, B. 2006. IEC demands a
Results. MEC33 – Seat vote recount in the Free State.
potential problems that were
Calculation Summary 2006-03-04. Diamond Fields Advertiser. 9 associated with the
March, p. complexity of managing
Interview with Mr Chris Mepha, local as opposed to national
Electoral Officer – FS: IEC. 19 and provincial elections.24
April 2006.
Some of these challenges
Local elections deserve an Oscar – included the counting of
Mbeki – IOL 2006. ballots accurately and doing
(http://www.iol.co.za/general/news so in time for the results to
/newsprint.php?art_id==qw114548 be announced within the
841755B242&2f Accessed on
4/6/2006)
time frame established by

Naledi councillor’s house torched. 24
Hopewell Dube, ‘ Super –
2006. Internet-IOL.
complex local poll headache for
(http://www.iol.co.za/general/news
IEC’,
/newsprint.php?art_id==qw114425
http://www.businessday.co.za/artic
0101489B265fsf=6/04/2006...Acc
les/specialreports.aspx?ID=BD4A
essed on 4/6/2006)
145910

17


the Independent Electoral were related to the electoral counted and processed in
Commission (IEC). process in the Eastern Cape. time.
In particular we refer to the
The nature of these problems increased voter turnout, Post Election Disputes
was both general (applicable revamped voting
to other provinces) and infrastructure and the One of the most serious
localised (peculiar to the consequent complexity that problems that can confront
province). The general was experienced in any electoral process is the
problems were located in the efficiently managing these nature and magnitude of
nature of the processes issues. election disputes that emerge
attendant to the conduct and in the aftermath of elections.
management of local For example, voting stations One debilitating effect of
elections, especially the were increased by about 30 such disputes, especially if
institutional arrangements percent compared to the they are found to be credible,
that underline this process. 2000 election and the would be to cast a cloud over
Different ballot papers were number of voters had the freeness and fairness of
used for different areas increased from 2.5 million to the election. These can be
according to the type of 2, 9 million.25 This factor raised both in a formalised
institutional structure in would, in and of itself, not manner (lodging an official
which voters were be considered to be a complaint with the IEC) or
participating. Thus, challenge, but was an issue generally making statements
variously, voters cast their in the Eastern Cape as the that question the credibility
ballots for ward, province registered the of the election.
proportional representation highest voter turnout at 56
and district council’s percent, translating to 4 .5 The nature of these disputes
representative according to million voters turning up to are commonly raised
their geographical locality. vote. This situation led to between political parties,
For example, on average, a increased amount of time usually framed around what
council voter would receive and resources needed to is considered to have been
three different ballots to administer the voting, the conduct that led to the
elect (ward, proportional counting and processing of disadvantaging of others or
representation and district the results. those leveled at the
council) candidates. administrative authority
However, taking all the responsible for running the
The localised problems were above issues into account, election, in this case the IEC.
tied to weather conditions the provincial IEC was able The common problem that
that pertained on voting day. to effectively manage the was experienced in the
Of note were the floods that process with very few Eastern Cape revolved
affected rural areas mainly in problems experienced that around intra-party disputes
areas of the Transkei region would have adversely that occurred within the
and the relative difficulties affected the process.26 Thus, ANC. It should be noted
in accessing rural voting the provincial votes were however, that these disputes
districts to deliver voting were not widespread and
materials due to poor 25
were thinly spread in terms
Lauren Cohen, ‘ 4000 Eastern
infrastructure such as roads, of locality and indeed in
Cape voting stations ready for
non availability of bridges crowds’, Weekend Post, 25 occurrence. They therefore
and so on. February 2006, p.2. did not effectively constitute
26
François Rank and Dineo a fundamental questioning of
The other factors that had a Matomela, ‘ Uneventful Bay the process to the extent that
elections good news for ANC as
bearing on this process were it could be regarded to have
counting begins’, The Herald, 2
the particular issues that March 2006, p.2. been tainted.

18

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Yenepad 2006 SOUTH AFRICAN Election