ANC to battle DA for ward 22

The Democratic Alliance (DA) and African National Congress (ANC) will go head to head in a by-election to control KwaDukuza municipality’s largest ward.

Ward 22 is presently without a councillor, following the promotion of Ann McDonnell to the KZN provincial legislature.

The ward, which encompasses Salt Rock, Tinley Manor, Fox Hill, Sheffield, Shakaskraal and Nkobongo, has been DA-controlled since its formation in 2011.

The opposition party pulled off a convincing win in Ward 22 in the recent general elections, with statistics showing they had gained a decisive edge over the ANC.

Last week the DA has announced well-known Malcolm Hubner as their by-election candidate.

Hubner (64) is presently the ward six DA chairman and is humbled at the prospect of representing ward 22.

“If the DA is successful I expect the first six months as councillor will be spent getting to grips with the diversity of ward 22 and understanding its needs. It will be a challenge but I would look forward to it.”

The Sheffield resident, who has been with the DA for 10 years, counts ward six councillor Colin Marsh as his mentor.

While he acknowledges the immense role McDonnell played in the area he has no intention of trying to emulate her.

“I will have my own way of doing things but I can promise one thing: I will be here for the people. It is my time to give back.”

ANC Greater KwaDukuza regional secretary Muzi Sithole said the party is confident going into the by-election, despite not yet having fielded a candidate.

The branch discussed possible candidates at a meeting on Sunday.

“The list of names will be vetted and sent to provincial structures for final approval. We will then officially release the name of our candidate.”

Voting for the by-election will take place on July 2 at the same five polling stations used during the general elections – Salt Rock Library, Shakaskraal Secondary, Sizani Combined School, Compensation Trading Store and the Tinley Manor Baptist Church.