Whether political or corporate, the satisfaction of those highest up the structures is overriding.
Last week, questions were raised around the permanent place of residence of Ward 85 councillor, Sonja Meyer. A leaked affidavit stated all the councillor’s particulars and gave her residential address as one in a suburb of Cape Town. Additional information obtained supports the information signed for on the affidavit yet those overseeing the election process are satisfied with Councillor Meyer’s eligibility.
Read initial article here: Ward councillor serving in Roodepoort revealed to be living in Cape Town
The Ward 85 councillor met with the Record at the Region C offices at 100 Christiaan de Wet Road on August 25. Together with DA’s Region C Whip, Ingrid Reinten, the pair elaborated on the concerns around the disputed place of residence. It was clarified that due to Councillor Meyer’s registration as a voter of a City of Johannesburg ward, she meets the requirements set out by the party and the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC).
As previously confirmed by Democratic Alliance leadership, Councillor Meyer has fulfilled all her administrative obligations as a ward councillor, and councillor Reinten is more than happy with Councillor Meyer’s performance, believing she is an exemplary representative of her ward who is widely supported by Ward 85 residents. “I would like to reassure residents of Ward 85 that my home is still very much in Horison. Know that I am still committed to my role as ward councillor, and dedicated to ensuring that every resident of Ward 85 receives the services they deserve,” said Councillor Meyer.
No proof of residence is needed when registering to vote and councillor Meyer declined the opportunity to present any proof to debunk the claims that Cape Town is her permanent place of residence. IEC Assistant Manager of Outreach and Communication, Pitso Moses, confirmed the verification process, stating “The ward councillor must only reside in the municipality. All they have to provide is an address and not proof of address. Again, no proof of residence is required.”
The councillor did elaborate on her additional employment confirming, “All councillors in Joburg are part-time, and most of us have other jobs that help to pay the rent. I have always maintained a professional life while serving as a councillor, and this has never interfered with my ability to serve the residents of Ward 85. I am currently working for a bank that is headquartered in Johannesburg, but I sometimes have to travel to meet with clients in other parts of the country. I do own property in Cape Town that I use when on holiday or travelling there for business.” She also confirmed her intention to run for re-election for her representative position for Ward 85.
The advances of modern society allow for the completion of multiple tasks from almost any given location; however, the most important action on the horizon needs to be performed in person at the ballot box.
