Elections 2024: Gauteng independent candidates believe they can influence policy
For the first time in post-democratic South Africa, individuals not affiliated to a political party will be contesting in the elections.
JOHANNESBURG - Gauteng independent candidates believe they can influence policy in the country despite competing for one seat each.
For the first time in post-democratic South Africa, individuals not affiliated with a political party will be contesting in the elections.
On Tuesday, these independent candidates, together with 52 political parties who will be contesting in Gauteng signed a pledge to abide by the Electoral Code of Conduct.
Independent candidate Anele Mda said being a member of Parliament and provincial legislature comes with a lot of power and privilege not afforded to many people.
“The fact that today in South Africa we have a bill that allowed marijuana or dagga to be used in SA for medicinal purposes came as a result of a Private Members Bill that was issued by IFP [Inkatha Freedom Party] late member Mario Oriani-Ambrosini. It was just one member of Parliament who did that. It was not an IFP position, it was one individual.”
Blessings Ramoba said as independent candidates, they have to be creative in how they navigate the political space.
“It’s about ideas, being in Parliament is about influencing policy direction and making sure you oversee implementation of policies.”
Another independent candidate, Tshepo Mogano said the current state of Gauteng metros shows how parties with one or two seats can be kingmakers.