Tensions escalate in Velddrif by-election

A BY-ELECTION in Ward 6 of the Bergrivier Municipality has turned tense following serious allegations of electoral interference and violence, with the ANC, EFF and PA calling for the disqualification of the DA from the contest.

- MANDILAKHE TSHWETE

The by-election, taking place in Velddrif's Noordhoek area and surrounding farming communities, was triggered by the resignation of a DA councillor amid allegations of racism within the party.

On Tuesday evening, shortly after the Noordhoek Community Hall voting station had closed at 5pm, members of the EFF, ANC, and PA said they witnessed the Speaker of the Bergrivier Municipality, Randall Swarts, - a DA member - unlawfully entering the premises where the IEC voting station had been set up.

According to the EFF's sub-regional secretary, Chadrick Fortuin, the Speaker was confronted by members of the three parties, who accused him of attempting to interfere with ballot materials.