Candidate debate proves political maturity

WARD 11 candidates battled it out at Ntuze Community Hall on Saturday during a political debate which gave community members the opportunity to ask hard-hitting questions ahead of Monday’s election.

The debate, organised by the Jabulani Richard Nxele Agricultural and Educational foundation (JR Nxele) Foundation, was themed ‘Making democracy work’.

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All five ward 11 candidates were invited to participate, with local issues and concerns raised for them to address.

The ward includes Nhlangenyuke, Ntuze, Siyabonga, Sihuzu, Phembokuhle, Malungisa and Nsiwa areas.

The DA was represented by Mzikhona Biyela, ANC by candidate Ntombenhle Zibane, NFP by Ndoda Mangazi, IFP by Thembinkosi Zibani, and EFF by Simphiwe Ndlela.

The foundation’s chair, Lindumusa Nxele, said the event was a success, with all parties and attendees showing due tolerance and respect.

Some of the issues raised included poverty, housing, and unemployment, with each candidate outlining why they should be elected.

‘Upon closing, all candidates took an oath to serve the entire community regardless of their political affiliations. They also pledged for peaceful local government elections,’ Nxele said.