A University of the Free State political analyst attributes the recent success of the DA in Matjhabeng and Mangaung by-elections to scandals that have plagued municipalities dominated by the ANC.

The DA held on to five wards with increased majorities during Wednesday’s (11/9) by-elections, further consolidating its presence in a province once firmly controlled by the ANC.

In Matjhabeng Ward 35, the DA maintained its seat, winning 46.02% of the total votes, a slight increase from the 45.85% it garnered during the 2021 municipal elections. Voter turnout was 41.01%. The largely rural ward covers parts of Odendaalsrus and Welkom.

In Mangaung, the party achieved even stronger results as it retained all four seats. In Ward 18 (Loerier Park, Fauna and Uitsig), the DA captured 85.23% of the votes, up from 65.62% in 2021, with a voter turnout of 27.17%. In Ward 20 (Dan Pienaar, Uitsig and Brandwag), the party won 98.40% of the vote, a significant increase from its 75.13% share in 2021, with a turnout of 24.65%.

In Wards 22 (Langenhoven Park) and 25 (Fichardt Park and Pellissier), the DA also increased its vote share and retained the seats, with voter turnouts of 27.05% and 29.21%, respectively.

A significant shift in local politics

The ANC, which has long dominated the Free State’s political landscape, failed to secure any of the contested wards, marking a significant shift in local politics.

Prof. Sethulego Matebesi believed the DA’s comfortable victories could be linked to numerous scandals that have plagued local municipalities under ANC control. “The mismanagement, corruption, and lack of service delivery within these municipalities have likely influenced voters’ decisions in these local elections.”

UFS political analyst, Prof. Sethugelo Matebesi. Photo: OFM

Matebesi emphasised that local and national elections are distinct in voter behaviour. “At the national level, people may continue to vote for another party, but at the local level, they seek out parties that advance their interests, especially in terms of governance and service delivery.”

Voters may have been more focused on selecting a party they believe would address their immediate needs, particularly as service delivery and governance have been persistent issues in the Free State.

‘The DA made a concerted effort to campaign in these wards’

Matebesi believed the DA’s visible campaign presence may have contributed to its success. “The DA made a concerted effort to campaign in these wards. Their posters were up early, and their candidates were actively engaging with residents. This kind of visibility and ground-level work is crucial in local elections.”

The by-elections may signal a growing shift in political allegiances within the Free State, as the DA strengthens its foothold, while the ANC grapples with the fallout from scandals and governance failures.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg