VANDERBIJLPARK – When the Town Substation recently suffered fire damage for the second time in the same month, leaving residents without electricity once again, tensions flared, leading to the lowest point in councillor Gerda Senekal’s political career.

“When you choose to serve in politics, you accept the path, with all its ups and downs. But no one chooses the unacceptable levels of intimidation, threats, and verbal abuse that I’ve had to endure recently,” says Gerda.

This was largely due to a voice note circulated by a disgruntled individual, which turned her world upside down.

In the voice note, Gerda is falsely accused of lying to people.

What makes the voice note even more shocking is that the individual incites violence against her, with references to assault, rape, and even leaving someone for dead.

“This is far from anything I have ever stood for,” says Gerda.
“I decided years ago to use the political platform to be a voice for those who cannot stand up for themselves.”

“My fight has always been for justice, service delivery, and the upliftment of my community. I am deeply passionate about the people I serve. But even in times of frustration and despair, our humanity should never give way to hatred and violence.”

“As a politician, you learn over the years to develop a thick skin. But behind that skin, there is still a person who feels, who loves, and who gets hurt.”

However, Gerda holds no grudge against the person who spread the voice note. The man, who introduced himself as Dirk in the voice note, allegedly contacted Gerda afterward to apologise. But the damage had already been done.

“But I want to ask: please remember that we, as councillors, are also human, with families and limited capacity. We try every day to do what we can, but even we have limits.”

“My goal remains unchanged: to improve the quality of life for my community. I will continue to fight that fight with dignity, determination, and love for the people I serve. I will always fight for you,” Gerda concludes.