DA retains Western Cape in 2024 elections

The Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape has retained power for another five years.

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in the Western Cape briefed the media on Saturday as the 100% completion mark were captured. Over 1.9 million eligible voters of the 3.3 million, cast their ballot in the province.

PICTURE: Mitchum George (PICTURED: IEC WC Head, Michael Hendrickse addresses final 2024 WC media briefing)

The DA had 1.08 million (55.3), followed by the African National Congress (ANC) with about 385 000 (19.55), the Patriotic Alliance (PA) is third with 153 000 (7.8%). The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) lies fourth with 104 000 votes (5.3%)

PICTURE: Mitchum George

IEC Western Cape head, Michael Hendrickse, reiterated that the results will be made in Tshwane.

‘’ [These] results are no means the final results. The IEC extended the period of objections, which mean we have to relook at the results and do a recount, depending on the circumstances. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the CEO and our commission in Tshwane to declare the final results of the elections.’’

Supporters of African Restoration Alliance (ARA) are protesting outside the IEC's Western Cape results Operation Centre.
Protesters are demanding a recount of the vote.@Bushradio @Bushradionews #2024Elections
📹: @MitchumGeorge pic.twitter.com/ZMePRb3UBz

— Mitchum George (@MitchumGeorge) June 1, 2024

Hendrickse described the 2024 National & Provincial Elections as a ‘’long and hard campaign.’’

‘’To a large extent there has been no serious transgressions of our code of conduct. Yes, there were challenges here and there, but I thank you very much to the political parties and the candidates. You have my respect., as you put yourselves out there in order to contest for these particular elections.’’

SCREENSHOT OF 2024 NPE results in WC

He apologised to voters in the Western Cape who experienced problems whilst casting their ballot.

‘’I know we did not always deliver a perfect election and many of you – your experience was not one we deserve to give you, and I apologise for that.’’

Before Hendrickse announced the results, the only independent candidate in the Western Cape, Zackie Achmat, announced that he has removed himself from the elections, admitting defeat.

‘’I have 10 500 votes and for me that is an achievement. It is deeply disappointing that I lost, and I accept the IEC’s verdict on this. Obviously, we have section 55 objections, because every vote should be counted, but I know the recounting of those votes will not bring me a different outcome, so I accept that,’’ said Achmat.

‘’I think it is very dangerous to play the game of the DA and IEC rigged the elections, because our country is facing a difficult time. I do not want Jacob Zuma back in government because if the MK, EFF, and ANC, goes in the same government, it means Zuma will rule again, and we should petition that.

When Bush Radio News asked what is next for Zackie Achmat, he said, ‘’Continue building a forum with people living with disabilities, queer, informal settlements, and the youth. Parliament needs to do what it needs to do, but most importantly, local government needs to start working for its people, properly.’’

Done By: Mitchum George