Analyst warns about serving cheap tricks after ANC mayor dishes out pap

An expert has cautioned politicians against employing cheap tactics to secure votes prior to the current local government elections. This comes following the emergence of a video featuring Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality's mayor, Khumalo Molefe, preparing pap while donning ANC attire. The clip, which can be viewed at https://t.co/FCkoogJkZL, sparked controversy on social media with critics labeling him as "desperate" for attempting to curry favor with voters.

Molefe, however, denied these allegations, stating that the cooking incident took place at the ANC Operations Center, not at any voter's home. He emphasized that this was merely a volunteer activity where they cook for themselves.

Political analyst Theo Neethling from The Citizen commented on the timing and purpose of such political stunts. He acknowledged that the video is a typical electioneering tactic, especially effective in rural areas where face-to-face canvassing takes place. Neethling highlighted that the act of a mayor cooking for others might create a sense of familiarity and personal connection, but it does not necessarily reflect the candidate's capability or willingness to handle the substantial responsibilities associated with local governance.

These responsibilities include water and electricity supply, financial management, infrastructure development, accountability, and basic service delivery. Neethling suggested that while such displays of solidarity might carry some weight in communities where personal interaction between political leaders and voters is crucial, they should not be overemphasized.

The real test for voters, he argued, lies in their decision-making after the election, when the candidate's performance in delivering municipal services will be the deciding factor.