VANDERBIJLPARK – Residents of Ward 35 in the Emfuleni Local Municipality are heading to the polls today in a crucial by-election that could reshape local politics. Voting stations opened at 7:00 AM and will close at 9:00 PM.

The by-election was triggered by the death of ANC councillor and former Mayoral Committee Member (MMC), Mapitso Molepo-Mashigo, who passed away earlier this year following a prolonged illness. Her passing created a political vacuum in the ward — and now, eleven candidates from across the political spectrum are vying to fill it.

The ANC is fielding Petrus Chakane Mohlamme, a former ward councillor seeking to reclaim the seat. But the competition is fierce. The DA has launched a strong campaign behind Peter Mmboyi, urging residents to vote for “clean and accountable governance.”

Other candidates include representatives from the EFF, PAC, Patriotic Alliance, MK Party, SEFM, SARKO, AAAIC, and the Labour Party — a crowded field that reflects a growing interest in local political change.

“This is more than just a by-election — it’s an opportunity for the people of Ward 35 to make their voices heard,” said DA’s Emfuleni Political Head, Dady Mollo.

As Emfuleni continues to grapple with service delivery failures, today’s vote will be closely watched — not just by residents, but by political observers looking for signs of shifting allegiances in this embattled municipality.