ANC Statement on the postponement of bi-elections in certain wards in Tlokwe
The African National Congress has noted and respects the Court Order issued by the Electoral Court today, 17 September 2013, in the matter S Johnson v The Independent Electoral Commission and Others in respect of the Tlokwe Municipality Bi-elections initially scheduled for tomorrow, 18 September 2013.
The Electoral Court has ordered the bi-elections in Wards 1,4, 11, 12 and 20 to be postponed. This is in addition to Ward 13 that had been postponed earlier in the day following an out-of-court settlement on the matter. The African National Congress echoes the sentiment and order of the Court calling for a full investigation into the matters before the court in respect of the conduct of an IEC official on the registration of candidates. Bi-elections in wards 6, 18 and 26 will continue as scheduled.
The ANC has also noted reported incidents of violence in Tlokwe during the week where members of the ANC were attacked and others stabbed. Anyone found guilty of any misconduct including violence and intimidation must be held responsible and brought to book. This behaviour is indicative of those who are afraid of the process of democracy and are thus prepared to resort to illegal means to intimidate others.
The African National Congress was combat ready for the bi-elections tomorrow. We will utilise this opportunity to place resources at our disposal and our energies in winning the three wards we are contesting tomorrow. The ANC remains committed to assisting the people of Tlokwe restore democracy within the Municipality. The ruling of the court today is neither a victory, setback nor a loss for the African National Congress as we were neither an applicant nor a respondent in the matter. It is our assertion that today's ruling is merely a temporary delay in the inevitable victory of the will of the people in Tlokwe.
Statement issued by Jackson Mthembu, ANC national spokesperson, September 17 2013
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