Thekwini Municipality has announced that it will enforce strict rules and regulations on political parties regarding the placement of election campaign posters in the city. The municipality has stated that it does not allow posters on certain roads, including the N2, N3, Western Freeway, and areas adjacent to beaches. This move aims to maintain the aesthetic appeal of the city and ensure public safety.
According to the municipality, posters are only allowed in specific areas, such as the Upper Marine Parade, Lower Marine Parade, and Snell Parade. However, there are designated areas where posters can be displayed, including the Ruth First Highway (M4 Northern Freeway), Inkosi Albert Luthuli Freeway (M4 Southern Freeway), and Higginson Highway, provided that certain conditions are met.
The municipality has set conditions for the display of posters, including a requirement for political parties and independent candidates to submit an application and pay a refundable deposit of R200 before erecting posters. Additionally, the number of posters is limited to 800 per party in a single ward. Posters must be erected using only approved stands, and parties are not allowed to erect more than two posters per stand.
The municipality has also specified the size and placement of posters, stating that they must be 2.5 meters from the ground and cannot be placed on traffic lights, signposts, bridges, walls, electricity boxes, trees, or municipal buildings. Posters must be removed within 30 days of being erected, and parties that fail to comply with the regulations will be fined.
The municipality has warned that parties that fail to remove their posters within the specified timeframe will be charged a fine, and the posters will be removed by the municipality. The municipality has urged political parties and independent candidates to inform their supporters of the regulations and ensure compliance.
The move has been met with complaints from some political parties, including the ANC and DA, who have reported that their posters have been removed. However, the Independent Electoral Commission has reported that the process has been peaceful, despite some complaints about the removal of posters.
The municipality's decision to enforce strict regulations on election campaign posters aims to maintain the city's aesthetic appeal and ensure public safety during the election period. The regulations are set to be in place until the elections take place on November 4.
Key points
- Thekwini Municipality has implemented strict regulations on election campaign posters, including designated areas for display and conditions for erection and removal.
- Posters must be removed within 30 days, and parties that fail to comply will be fined.
- The move aims to maintain the city's aesthetic appeal and ensure public safety during the election period.
