The African National Congress (ANC) has emerged as the leading party in the Makana Municipality, securing 10 seats, but falling short of an outright majority. The Democratic Alliance (DA) follows closely with six seats, while the Makana United Civic Movement (MUCM) has made a notable debut, securing four seats. Other parties, including the Economic Freedom Fighters, South African Communist Party, Patriotic Alliance, Makana Citizens Front (MCF), and Action SA, each secured one seat.
The MUCM's impressive performance marks a significant development in Makana's political landscape. Established this year, the civic movement has managed to secure third place, surpassing the Makana Citizens Front (MCF). According to MUCM representative John (Jock) McConnachie, the emergence of civic movements reflects growing dissatisfaction with traditional party politics. He believes that councillors from larger parties often lack independence due to party caucus decisions.
McConnachie expressed hope that political parties and civic movements can establish cooperative working relationships, prioritizing the improvement of Makhanda. The results follow a day of cautious optimism among parties, as voters cast their ballots at polling stations across Makhanda on November 4. Party representatives engaged with voters and monitored turnout throughout the day, describing the atmosphere as positive.
The DA's representative, Tim Bull, described the party's mood as "quietly hopeful," stating that change was more likely than ever before. However, concerns were raised about the accuracy of the voters' roll. Gullym Theron, the DA's Ward 4 candidate, noted that deceased voters and those who had relocated remained registered, inflating the total number of registered voters and making turnout appear lower than it was.
Theron argued that the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) should be responsible for updating the roll, warning that giving parties or candidates access could lead to abuse. The IEC announced that only 18 municipalities, or 7%, had been counted, and that the final results could not be announced before 5 pm on November 6. At the time, 15.9 million out of 29.2 million registered voters had cast their ballots, representing a turnout of 52.6%, according to Dr Pravesh Debba of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research.
The IEC's voter roll has been criticized for including deceased individuals and those who have relocated. Cary Clark, the DA's Ward 8 candidate, noted that deceased voters were listed in a separate category but still counted toward the overall total. This has raised concerns about the accuracy of voter turnout numbers.
The Makana Municipality election results reflect a complex and evolving political landscape. As parties and civic movements navigate their new roles, cooperation and collaboration will be essential in addressing the challenges facing the municipality. The emergence of the MUCM as a significant player is likely to have a lasting impact on local politics.
Key points
- ANC wins 10 seats but falls short of majority in Makana Municipality
- MUCM emerges as third-largest party with 4 seats
- Voter roll concerns raised due to inclusion of deceased and relocated individuals
