ODeL Enhances Public Service Learning
January 16, 2025
Anti-Corruption Efforts Yield Sentences
January 16, 2025
Ward 24 (Legokgwe Cunningmoor) in Bushbuckridge, Ehlanzeni, Mpumalanga, saw the ANC retain its seat in a high-turnout by-election following the passing of the ward councillor. The ANC secured 74% of the vote, an improvement from its 62% performance in the 2021 local elections, while the EFF garnered 26%, a slight dip from 34%.
Ward Overview
Nestled near the Kruger National Park, northwest of Skukuza and west of Sabi Sands and Mala Mala, Ward 24 lies in the southern part of Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga’s second-most-populous municipality and a vote-rich region within Ehlanzeni. The ward includes Legokgwe (Oakley) and Cunningmoor (Tiyemeleni), with distinct voting patterns.
Local Government and Provincial Election Trends
In the 2021 local elections, the ANC underperformed relative to its Bushbuckridge average, obtaining 66%, while the EFF outperformed, achieving 10%. Notably, the EFF captured one voting district, Cunningmoor, with 62%, while the ANC swept the rest, particularly excelling in the Church of the Nazarene district with 81%.
By the 2024 provincial elections, the ANC improved to 73% in the ward, though down from 84% in 2019. The EFF grew from 10% to 19%, cementing its presence, while MK secured 4%, trailing the DA at 3%. Across Bushbuckridge, the ANC maintained dominance with 76%, down slightly from 79% in 2019. The EFF’s rise to 13% reflected its growing support.
By-Election Results
The ANC decisively retained Ward 24, outperforming the EFF by 1,799 votes. This stronghold saw notable shifts in voter dynamics:
- Legokgwe (Oakley): The ANC grew significantly, with 96% in the Church of the Nazarene district (up from 81%), 85% at Oakley Primary School (up from 68%), and similar dominance in other districts. The EFF’s share fell to single digits in these areas.
- Cunningmoor (Tiyemeleni): The EFF maintained its 61% majority, similar to its 2021 showing, while the ANC improved slightly from 36% to 39%.
Voter Turnout and Next Steps
Voter turnout in Ward 24 increased to 49% from 40% in 2021, reflecting robust engagement in this by-election.
Looking ahead, the ANC will defend two safe seats in the Eastern Cape during the next round of by-elections on 22 January.
