Tension mounts in Mitchells Plain by-election

By Mishkah Anthony and Mikhaila Crowie
25 March 2009

Tension is rising as residents are expected to vote in Ward 79 by-elections after the councillor for the ward, Dennis Williams, resigned from the Independent Democrats to join the Democratic Alliance.

The ID in the Western Cape claims that some of their canvassers were ambushed and assaulted by a Democratic Alliance candidate and supporters.

Media reports suggest that ID members were canvassing in Eastridge, Mitchells Plain when a 15-year-old girl was pulled of the back of a bakkie and assaulted.

It’s alleged that the 15-year-old was rushed to hospital thereafter.

Bush Radio spoke to Robin Carlisle, spokesperson for the DA.

Carlisle could confirm that the candidate was not arrested but he could also confirm that a case of Crimen Injuria and Common Assault has been made.

Meanwhile Sakie Jenner from the Independent Democrats said intimidation in the area continues.

“No, there’s just a lot of intimidation from the DA’s side. A lot of intimidation like gangsters with DA t-shirts on, chasing our people around in Littlewood.”

Meanwhile the chairperson of the Mitchells Plain Community Policing Forum, Michael Jacobs confirms that two cases were made in connection with the by-elections.

“However we want to caution that investigation is still in its early stage, and we don’t want to speculate on the matters of the case.”

Jacobs urged the community to refrain from commenting on the issue until investigation has been completed.