The IFP retained ward 23 in a fiercely contested by-election in Vryheid in northern KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday.
The position became vacant a few months ago after the death of IFP ward councillor Xolani Zungu.
The IFP got 1,559 votes, while the ANC trailed with 648 votes, followed by the MK Party with 567, the EFF 188 and the Labour Party 68.
The win comes despite controversial IFP senior leader and Zululand district mayor Mkhonyovu Khumalo's scuffle with police when they prevented him from entering a voting station during the by-election on Wednesday.
Khumalo was seen in a video that went viral threatening and pointing fingers at police officers trying to bar him entry. It is not clear why Khumalo was prevented from entering the voting station.
IFP KwaZulu-Natal deputy chairperson Inkosi Ntandoyenkosi Shabalala said the party was humbled by the “overwhelming support and confidence” shown by the residents of ward 23.
“This remarkable victory is a testament to the tireless efforts and unwavering commitment of IFP volunteers, members and leaders who dedicated themselves to the intense campaign,” said Shabalala.
He said they encouraged the newly elected ward councillor Samkelo Myeni to emulate the exemplary leadership and values of party founder Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
Despite losing, ANC KwaZulu-Natal spokesperson Fanle Sibisi extended the party's gratitude to ward 23 residents who exercised their democratic right to vote in the by-election.
“The ANC is immensely proud of your efforts to defend democracy and uphold the values of justice, fairness and people-centred governance. Though the outcome of the by-election was not in our favour, the ANC takes pride in having waged a principled and spirited campaign, one anchored in service to the people and a commitment to ethical leadership,” he said.
However, Sibisi added they were deeply concerned over several alleged serious irregularities that cast a shadow over the electoral process.
He said they had received credible allegations that had now formally been brought to the attention of the Electoral Commission of SA (IEC) which included:
- illegal voter registration, involving individuals fraudulently registered in the ward;
- organised and systematic busing in of non-residents, who were possible unlawfully allowed to vote; and
- deliberate disruption of the voting process, led by senior opposition leaders who showed blatant disregard for the voting process.
“It is alarming that such acts were carried out with impunity. The ANC calls on the IEC to urgently investigate these matters, strengthen its verification systems and hold those responsible accountable without fear or favour.”
The IEC did not respond to queries.
TimesLIVE
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