Nkonyeni’s call comes as the country prepares for the voter registration weekend on the 18th and 19th September 2021. This is in preparation for the upcoming Local Government Elections due to take place on the 1st November 2021.

The recent incidents of attacks and killing of community members in a community meeting in eNanda last weekend have sparked fears in the province. This incident is believed to be linked to the dispute around the nomination of a councillor representative. The case is now being investigated by the Political Violence Task Team.

Nkonyeni has urged the citizens of the province to use the voter registration period to demonstrate political tolerance and appealed to political parties to work with law enforcement agencies where there are potential threats of violence.

“Law enforcement agencies in the province have developed a clear security plan to secure the voter registration weekend. We can assure all citizens of their safety and that their constitutional right is guaranteed and protected. Voting is an important constitutional right, and no one must be denied that opportunity. Our province has made progress in addressing political violence, therefore, any attempts to reverse these gains will not be tolerated,” said Nkonyeni.

Whilst there are few incidents reported, the provincial government is of a view that the province is now achieving fair political stability and is closer to achieving total political co-existence.

MEC Nkonyeni is also the Chairperson of the provincial Multi-Party Political Intervention Committee, which is responsible for addressing all potential areas of threats. The committee comprises of the Independent Electoral Commission, Provincial Government, Police, and the leaders of political parties.

Currently, there are few areas which are regarded as flashpoint areas; however, the province has completely eradicated what was known as the “no go areas”. Today, all political parties are free to campaign in any ward and local municipality.

“We call on the political leaders to engage their supporters and promote political tolerance. Political supporters must desist from making provocative remarks and song. They must respect other’s rights to conduct political activities, and no one must remove the posters of any political party and independent candidates. Those who will be found to be on the wrong side of the law will be dealt with very harshly,” warned Nkonyeni.

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