Residents of Johannesburg’s Ward 102 are being urged to confirm their voter registration details this weekend, ahead of a by-election scheduled for February 25.

The by-election follows the resignation of the ward councillor at the end of November, requiring residents to elect a new representative to serve the remainder of the term.

According to Democratic Alliance by-election candidate Bea Campbell-Cloete, the timing of the IEC registration weekend has contributed to low public awareness, with many residents unaware that a by-election is taking place at all.

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“The dates were declared and published during the festive season, when many businesses had closed, and residents were away on holiday. By-elections already receive far less attention than general elections, and, at the ward level, communication often doesn’t reach people in time.”

She warned that many residents assume they are automatically eligible to vote if they have participated in previous elections, without checking whether they are correctly registered in the ward. “If you are not registered at the correct address or in the correct ward, you may not be able to vote in the by-election, even if you are eligible. That is why this registration weekend is so important.”

Campbell-Cloete said service delivery failures remain the most pressing concern raised by residents, particularly deteriorating roads, potholes, storm water infrastructure, electricity issues, and outstanding reinstatements following repairs.

Public safety and by-law enforcement were also highlighted as key challenges, with ongoing problems related to illegal dumping, unlawful signage, vagrancy, and hijacked properties.

“These issues don’t exist in isolation. They directly affect economic activity in the ward. We’re already seeing empty shops in local centres, and if the environment continues to decline, the local economy will suffer further.”

Addressing voter apathy around by-elections, Campbell-Cloete said disengagement was understandable, but carried real consequences at the local level. “At ward level, the councillor is the direct link between residents and the City of Johannesburg. Choosing not to participate means choosing not to have a say in who represents you in council and engages with service delivery departments on your behalf.”

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She said residents could expect improved communication and more consistent feedback on reported issues within the first six months of a new councillor’s term, while cautioning that major infrastructure repairs and systemic challenges would take longer due to budget and departmental constraints.

Residents are encouraged to verify or update their voter registration details by visiting their designated IEC voting station this weekend or using the IEC’s official online platforms.

Voting stations in Ward 102 include Laerskool Fontainebleau, Bordeaux Primary School, Blairgowrie Community Centre, St Stithians Girls’ College, and Bryanston High School.

“If you don’t register or confirm your details now, you may lose your chance to vote in the February 25 by-election. Participation at the ward level is not symbolic; it has direct consequences for the community.”

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