ActionSA says it is liaising with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to lodge a formal dispute against the African National Congress (ANC) for alleged electoral irregularities.

ActionSA want the IEC to investigate allegations that the ANC had transported non-residents to vote in the Ward 130 by-election in Soweto, earlier this week, as well as claims that the party offered voters money for electoral support.

“This conduct is nothing less than the theft of democracy. It denies residents the right to freely choose their councillor and exposes a governing party so desperate to cling to power that it will cheat communities out of their voice,” the party said.

Now, the party is heading into the October 15 by-elections in wards 29 and 7, in Johannesburg and the North West, respectively, with “heightened vigilance”.

“…ActionSA remains concerned that, in an effort to stem their declining support, established political parties have resorted to unlawful tactics as witnessed during the Ward 130 by-election in Soweto. Such actions not only undermine the credibility of the process and cast doubt on the legitimacy of the outcome but, more critically, silence the genuine voice and aspirations of residents,” the party said.   

It assured that it was ready to head into the October by-election to challenge “failed” established political parties.

Polity has reached out to the ANC for comment and will update the story once received.