Mixed fortunes in by-elections

By Johnathan Paoli

The latest round of municipal by-elections has revealed shifting political dynamics across South Africa, with notable victories for the African National Congress, the Democratic Alliance and the Patriotic Alliance in three tightly contested wards.

The by-elections took place in Tshwane (Ward 56 – Hatfield/Brooklyn), Knysna (Ward 8 – Concordia/Joodse Kamp), and Mossel Bay (Ward 9 – D’Almeida/Tarka).

In Tshwane, the DA retained its traditional stronghold with a commanding 80% of the vote, a dramatic increase from its 2024 general election performance of 50% in the same ward.

The by-election was triggered by the resignation of DA councillor Jarad Frimmel in April.

Newly elected councillor Tiaan Dippenaar will now represent areas including Hatfield, Brooklyn, New Muckleneuk and Hillcrest.

The ward recorded a voter turnout of just 12%, with DA dominance especially visible in Nieuw Muckleneuk, where more residents turned out than in the larger Hatfield area.

Dippenaar, who