The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) used to be trusted by all political parties. Not anymore. The credibility of the IEC is now in question. As a result, there is fear that the forthcoming municipal elections may not be free and fair. How did we arrive here?
In the forthcoming local government elections, focus will be on the governing ANC and official opposition DA. The competition between these two most powerful parties is expected to be fierce. So the stakes are very high.
That said, the new kid on the block, EFF will participate in the local government elections for the first time. The pertinent question is: how will it fare? It is expected to be the third most powerful party in Mogale and elsewhere, deposing the FF+.
The EFF has no experience in the local government. So what will it be bringing to the local municipality? It will bring energy and vibrancy to our boring local politics. Most of its members are young and radical. They are prepared to break the rules in order to drive their point home. So it’s going to be hectic.
The opposition in Mogale is weak and ineffective. Will the EFF bring about change to that? Will it also hold the governing party accountable (without being rowdy and unruly) in order to enhance our democracy? Only time will tell.
