Dean Macpherson, the DA's KwaZulu-Natal chairperson and Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, cast his vote at Northwood Boys High School in Durban North on Wednesday afternoon. He expressed confidence that the DA would perform well in the local government elections, particularly in eThekwini Municipality, where the party is battling for control. Macpherson emphasized that the DA is campaigning to win the municipality outright.
Macpherson did not rule out the possibility of a coalition with the ANC if no party secures an outright majority in eThekwini. He cited the existing coalition between the DA and ANC in the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government as a working model, although imperfect. Macpherson stressed that coalition discussions would only take place after the voting process is complete.
The DA's KwaZulu-Natal chairperson portrayed the race for eThekwini as a contest between the DA and the MK Party, with the result expected to be extremely close. He urged residents to vote before polling stations closed at 9 pm, emphasizing that every vote would count. Macpherson also expressed confidence that the DA would retain uMngeni Municipality with an increased majority.
Macpherson outlined the DA's priorities if it takes control of eThekwini, including allocating R10 billion to tackle water infrastructure problems. The aim is to resolve the crisis within six months by reprioritizing the budget. He also highlighted the need to address municipal billing problems, citing instances where pensioners received bills of R100,000.
Macpherson's voting experience at Northwood Boys High School was smooth, with minor problems elsewhere, including queues, resolved by opening an additional voting stream. He noted that voting at Northwood had personal significance, having voted there since he turned 18 and previously served as a ward councillor in Durban North.
The DA's KwaZulu-Natal chairperson emphasized the importance of resolving the water crisis in eThekwini, which has been a long-standing issue. He assured residents that the DA is committed to finding a solution and has a plan in place to address the problem. Macpherson's comments come as voters in KwaZulu-Natal head to the polls to elect their local representatives.
The local government elections in South Africa are being closely watched, with 126 local organizations observing the process. The IEC has warned voters and parties against ballot photos, intimidation, and illegal campaigning, while police have been deployed to election hotspots to ensure a smooth voting process.
Key points
- The DA's Dean Macpherson keeps options open for ANC coalition in eThekwini.
- Macpherson outlines DA's priorities, including R10 billion for water infrastructure.
- The DA aims to resolve eThekwini's water crisis within six months.
