Thabazimbi residents have until 9pm to cast their votes
A by-election is being held in Thabazimbi today to elect a new local government and fill the vacant council.
It’s D-Day for 21 political parties contesting today’s by-election in Thabazimbi, Limpopo. Picture: Alpha Ramushwana/ Eyewitness News
JOHANNESBURG - Thabazimbi residents have until 9pm on Wednesday to cast their votes as the IEC concludes the by-elections in the municipality.
A by-election is being held in Thabazimbi today to elect a new local government and fill the vacant council.
ALSO READ: Thabazimbi by-elections: Some voters frustrated over municipality’s ongoing political instability
The council was dissolved in August following prolonged political disputes that resulted in the collapse of service delivery.
A total of 21 political parties are contesting the by-election, with just 24 seats up for grabs in the municipal council.
Voters in Thabazimbi have endured the scorching heat, reaching temperatures of 40°c, driven by the hope that their vote will bring about change.
Philemon Mainetja, a frustrated community member, says he only wants a stable government.
"The political parties here are always fighting. They do nothing for us. All they know is to steal from the public purse."
Another resident Maria Scholes says she’s more concerned about service delivery.
"We need some real service delivery. If we’re not struggling with water, we’re struggling with power. If it’s not power, it’s something else."
With 51,000 people registered to vote, the IEC aims for a 60% voter turnout.