I’m fit and ready, says ANC’s Tsengwa after retaining Ward 8 in Knysna

ANC candidate Aubrey Tsengwa made a spectacular comeback when he retained  Knysna’s ward 8  after he resigned just a few months ago. 

Tsengwa was ousted as a mayor during  a motion of no confidence earlier this year following allegations of corruption. A month later, he  resigned from his position as ward 8 councillor, which left a vacancy, resulting in  Wednesday’s by-election.

The  by-election was contested by the ANC, EFF, PA, Knysna Independent Movement, the Land Party and MK.

Tsengwa won the seat with 52.12% of the total votes cast. The voter turnout was 51.05% compared to the 53.38% during the 2021 local government elections.

Tensions were so high ahead of this week’s by-election, so much so that  current mayor, Mayor Thando Matika, who had replaced Tswengwa, received death threats which were suspected to be linked to the upcoming by-election.

“I am very happy, very excited, that's basically what I'm doing for the community. When you resigned within a month or two then the community brought you back, I am fit and ready,” said Tsengwa. 

The ANC Victor Molosi Region congratulated Tsengwa on his victory and retaining the ward.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the structures of the ANC  and our alliance partners SANCO for their steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment throughout the campaign. A special word of thanks goes to our dedicated volunteers, who worked tirelessly often in difficult conditions to ensure this victory. Our immediate task is clear: to deliver quality, people-centered services that meet the needs and aspirations of our communities,” said regional secretary, Phumela Nosana. 

The ANC in the province said it was their first win, under the current Provincial Executive Committee (PEC). 

“This important win reaffirms the ANC’s growing connection with communities and our commitment to renewal, unity, and service delivery. We want to congratulate Comrade Ndoda Aubrey Tsengwa, whose dedication and deep-rooted work among the people helped deliver this victory. We also extend our appreciation to the NEC deployees. Collective efforts yield results,” said  ANC Western Cape Provincial Secretary Neville Delport. 

Meanwhile  Local Government MEC, Anton Bredell said on Thursday he has issued a notice of intention to intervene in the Knysna Local Municipality in terms of Section 139 of the Constitution due to “protracted and ongoing systemic governance and service delivery failures”.

He is considering making a recommendation to the Provincial Cabinet that the municipal council be dissolved.

“This decision to issue a notice of intention to intervene demonstrates the provincial government’s commitment to restoring good governance and ensuring that the residents of Knysna receive the basic municipal services to which they are entitled,” said Bredell.