×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

ANC raises alarm over by-elections

CONCERNED: Sihle Zikalala. ANC provincial secretary. © Unknown
CONCERNED: Sihle Zikalala. ANC provincial secretary. © Unknown

THE ANC in KwaZulu-Natal has sounded warning bells ahead of much anticipated by-elections in the province.

There will be six by-elections taking place today.

Party provincial secretary Sihle Zikalala said yesterday that though they were ready for the by-elections, they were at the same time concerned about challenges of safety and security.

"We remain concerned about the safety and security of our people with regards to tomorrow's (today) by-elections," said Zikalala.

"In the Abaqulusi region (Vryheid) there are already allegations of ballot boxes with ballot papers that have already been marked in favour of the IFP, which is worrying."

He said they were concerned at the prospect of vote rigging because it had happened during elections in Ulundi where a presiding officer was found with marked ballot papers.

"We therefore appeal to all our security agencies and election monitors to be vigilant," he said.

But Zikalala was also quick to point out their readiness.

"We are ready. The people of the province have in recent times demonstrated their trust in the ANC to better their lives," he said.

Provincial electoral officer Mawethu Mosery said the commission had not received complaints or allegations of marked ballot papers.

"It has not come to our attention, but we are securing the ballot papers very well," Mosery said.

He said it was not easy for elections to be rigged as a person gets one ballot paper.

Provincial leaders of the ANC have been deployed in different areas to monitor the elections.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.