EFF object to IEC coin toss to break vote tie with DA in Buffalo City
The party is demanding a recount of the votes in the ward.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has challenged the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in Buffalo City Metro, Eastern Cape, over a coin toss used to break a tie in voting numbers in Ward 15. The party is requesting a recount of the votes in the affected ward. A coin toss occurs when candidates receive an equal number of votes, as is the case between the EFF and the Democratic Alliance (DA) in this instance.
The election process has been temporarily halted pending the outcome of the dispute. EFF spokesperson Mziyanda Hlekiso stated, "Please cease with this coin toss nonsense and conduct a recount instead, as this coin toss does nothing for us. Let's go back to the ballots and proceed from there. We can also recount the spoiled ballots; we remain confident.
The coin toss is the last resort." The EFF also affirmed it will not participate in coalition governments in the Free State solely for the purpose of acquiring power. Any potential coalition agreement must ensure implementation of the party's policies, specifically targeting the eradication of tender corruption and enhancement of state capacity.
EFF's representative in the Free State, Mapheule Liphoko, indicated that the party is deliberating its options in municipalities with no clear winner, including joining other parties in government or holding an opposition position. Liphoko affirmed the EFF's acceptance of the voters' mandate, despite a marginal decrease in its electoral support.
He emphasized the need for the party to revisit its stance in multiple municipalities, considering each case individually. In these scenarios, they would either join opposition benches or form government with parties that align with their policies, prevent state corruption, and bolster state capacity. However, they stressed that they do not wish to replicate Cape Town's scenario where Langa is neglected while the urban areas are well-serviced.
Liphoko concluded, "We need to go back to the drawing board and investigate where our shortcomings lie."
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