George by-elections: Electoral Court dismisses GOOD application, intimidation and conduct breach cases filed

19 July 2023

The DA notes the court decision today, dismissing GOOD’s application to postpone the George by-elections.

We have also reliably learned that a case of intimidation was opened against GOOD secretary-general Brett Herron and GOOD regional coordinator Donovan Saptoe, at the Conville police station in George (case number 184/7/2023). The complainant is a voter accusing Herron and Saptoe of aggressive attempts to coerce the voter into signing a false affidavit, written by Herron himself, to the effect that the voter had been misled and manipulated by DA canvassers to be unlawfully registered.

It is almost inconceivable that senior members of a political party can stoop to intimidation!

The DA is also aware of other incidents of GOOD intimidation, and imminent additional charges against Herron and Saptoe. The DA will support the victims every step of the way.

The DA is appalled by Herron and Saptoe’s illicit conduct. GOOD is all but completely non-existent, and their conduct is a desperate and futile gambit to maintain relevance.

Today, the DA will lay charges against GOOD in terms of the Electoral Act, the Municipal Electoral Act as well as the Electoral Code of Conduct.

GOOD has completely lost their focus and their intention is no longer to serve residents. They are fighting only to survive, and over the last few days they have showed South Africans that they are willing to go to any length, including undermining the constitution and voters’ constitutional right to vote.

The DA, however, remains focused on what matters ensuring that residents receive the services they deserve.

Issued by Tertuis Simmers, DA Provincial Leader, Western Cape, 19 July 2023