The EThekwini Ratepayers' Political Movement has secured two council seats in the local government elections, marking a significant breakthrough for the newly formed party. Established by local ratepayers, the party contested the elections to push for solutions to issues affecting ratepayers. Party leader Asad Gaffar expressed excitement over the electoral performance, with nearly 12 300 voters backing the movement despite competing against established political parties.
The two council seats will enable the movement to take its fight for accountability and residents' interests directly into the municipal council. Previously, the party had challenged municipal decisions from outside the council. Gaffar noted that fighting from the outside was not equivalent to fighting from the inside, and the movement needed a seat at the table. The party's success represents a significant achievement, with many doubters questioning its chances of securing seats.
Gaffar hit back at political parties that had questioned or opposed the movement's decision to contest the elections. He stated that those who believed the movement was doing something unlawful should have taken action. The party leader emphasized that the movement remained committed to representing ratepayers and would now have an opportunity to do so both outside and inside the council.
Although the movement had hoped to secure an outright majority, Gaffar said it was pleased to have gained representation and would now take its campaign into the council chamber. The party's electoral performance was notable, with nearly 12 300 voters supporting it. Gaffar expressed confidence that the movement would deliver and ensure that ratepayers' voices are heard in council.
The EThekwini Ratepayers' Political Movement's success is seen as a significant achievement, particularly given the skepticism it faced from some quarters. Gaffar recalled that many people thought the movement was crazy and would not get any seats. However, the party's determination and commitment to representing ratepayers have paid off, with the securing of two council seats.
The movement's campaign will now focus on pushing for solutions to issues affecting ratepayers from within the council. Gaffar emphasized that the work starts today, and the party will ensure that ratepayers' voices are heard. The party's success is likely to be seen as a positive development for ratepayers in the area, who will now have a stronger voice in the municipal council.
The EThekwini Ratepayers' Political Movement's achievement is a testament to the power of determination and commitment to representing the interests of a community. With two council seats, the party will now have a platform to push for accountability and solutions to issues affecting ratepayers. The party's success will be closely watched, particularly given its unconventional approach to politics.
Key points
- The EThekwini Ratepayers' Political Movement secured two council seats with nearly 12 300 votes.
- The party's success marks a significant breakthrough, with many doubters questioning its chances of securing seats.
- The movement will now take its campaign into the council chamber, pushing for solutions to issues affecting ratepayers.
