The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have secured a decisive victory in the hotly contested Ward 13 by-election in Seshego, Polokwane, retaining control of the ward despite fierce competition. The by-election, held following the removal of an EFF councillor due to misconduct, saw the party clinch 57.34% of the vote, solidifying its dominance in the area.
The African National Congress (ANC) trailed with just over 40%, while the South African Communist Party (SACP), contesting independently for the first time in the province, garnered a mere 1.9% of the vote. The remaining votes were split among smaller parties, including the All Citizens Party and the Labor Party, which failed to secure even 1% support.
A Strategic Win for the EFF
The EFF’s victory reaffirms its stronghold in Ward 13, a region closely tied to party leader Julius Malema. Provincial chairperson Lawrence Mapoulo attributed the win to rigorous campaigning and deep community engagement.
“We didn’t start a week ago—we prepared months in advance,” Mapoulo said in an interview. “Our people are always behind the EFF. This is a liberated zone, and no one will penetrate it.”
The by-election saw a 50% voter turnout, with only around 5,000 of the 11,000 registered voters participating. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) reported 30 spoiled ballots.
SACP’s Independent Experiment Falls Flat
The SACP’s decision to contest independently—a first in Limpopo—raised eyebrows, given its alliance with the ANC. However, its poor performance suggests voters remain loyal to the ANC in opposition contests.
Despite the setback, the SACP clarified that its participation was not a direct challenge to the ANC but rather a test of its electoral machinery ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
Discipline and Accountability Pledged
The previous EFF councillor was ousted for misconduct, including absenteeism from legislative meetings. Mapoulo assured that the new councillor would be held to strict accountability measures, including monthly performance reports and mandatory community oversight.
“No laziness will be tolerated,” Mapoulo emphasized. “Our public representatives must comply with the law and deliver services.”
What’s Next?
The EFF’s retention of Ward 13 reinforces its growing influence in Limpopo, while the ANC faces pressure to regain lost ground. Meanwhile, the SACP’s underwhelming debut as an independent contender signals challenges ahead if it pursues further solo campaigns.
As political parties gear up for 2026, this by-election serves as a critical barometer of shifting loyalties in one of South Africa’s most contested provinces.