The Democratic Alliance’s (DA) Bea Campbell-Cloete secured a decisive victory in the Ward 102 by-election on February 25, winning with a commanding 94.8% margin.
The ward, which falls under the City of Johannesburg, held the by-election to fill a vacant council seat. Electoral Commission of South Africa officials reported no incidents at any voting station.

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Ward 102 covers several suburbs in Johannesburg North, where service delivery, infrastructure, water, and safety remain pressing issues. Parties campaigned actively, urging residents to cast their votes.

On election day, different political parties assisted residents outside venues, while party agents monitored proceedings inside voting stations to ensure fairness. Residents arrived early, bringing weeks of campaigning to a close.

When polls closed, counting began under watchful eyes. Hours later, Campbell-Cloete emerged victorious, her margin leaving little doubt about the community’s choice.
She thanked Ward 102 residents for their trust and pledged accountability and dedicated service. She acknowledged minor challenges during the election process.

“Two voting districts changed their venues, which led to some scrambling to ensure voters knew where to go. Because this by-election was called and conducted very quickly, there was understandable confusion among some residents about who should be voting and at which station.”

Also read: Democratic Alliance makes clean sweep of Ward 102 by-elections

Despite these glitches, Campbell-Cloete said she felt deeply supported throughout the day.
“Service delivery does not pause for an election. I still had to attend to ongoing ward matters, including an inspection of properties in Ferndale. That is the reality of local government; residents rely on us every day. Our campaign team, colleagues, staff, volunteers, and both provincial and national leadership stood firmly behind me.”

She added, “My family carried me through. Most importantly, residents were phenomenal, patient, encouraging one another to vote, sending messages of support, and waiting with us for the results. I am deeply grateful to every single person who participated.”

Looking ahead, the newly elected councillor said her priorities include improving service delivery, strengthening law and by-law enforcement, restoring public spaces, and creating an environment that attracts investment and fosters community pride.
“Ward 102 deserves to function properly. That is the mandate I have received, and that is exactly what I intend to deliver. In a democracy, there is no victory unless the residents win. This result is an endorsement from the people of Ward 102, but it is not the finish line; it is the starting point.”

She concluded with a commitment to transparency and communication.
“We need stronger, clearer, and honest communication with residents, so they understand how local government works, what their rights are, and how we work together to fix what is broken.”

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