WCG will oppose the postponement of the Local Government Elections

The Western Cape Government has resolved to oppose the Electoral Commission’s application to the Constitutional Court to postpone the Local Government Elections.

The Premier of the Western Cape, Alan Winde, said: “As a Provincial Government we will oppose the postponement of the election because it risks setting a dangerous precedent whereby suffrage, and related rights, can be deferred and without following the correct constitutional process. As per the Constitution, the matter must be brought before Parliament and not the judiciary. We must ensure that our elections continue ahead as planned as this is in the best interest of our democracy.”

The Provincial Minister responsible for Local Government, Anton Bredell, said: “A key component of any democracy, one that is enshrined in our Constitution, is holding regular elections and we must protect this right. Going against a constitutionally mandated election process - as suggested by the postponement that is being sought by the Electoral Commission - is simply not something we can take lightly as the Western Cape Government. If the election does get postponed, then at the very least, due process must be followed and the matter must be referred to Parliament.”

The application will be heard by the Constitutional Court on Friday, 20 August. The Western Cape Government will oppose the application through the Provincial Minister responsible for Local Government, in his capacity as the 10th respondent in the matter.