Independent candidate wins by-election in Standerton with a landslide victory
He said he would prioritise the concerns and needs of every resident in Ward 4, ensuring their voices are heard and interests represented.
Corné Stoltz, an independent candidate in Ward 4, triumphed convincingly on October 25 in the by-election for Meyerville and TLC.
He united 71.9% of the voters behind him, compared to 37.14% during the 2021 elections. Stoltz resigned from the Freedom Front Plus earlier this year.
The ward has 2 877 registered voters, casting ballots at two voting stations. The voter turnout was 47.90%.
The Standerton Advertiser contacted Thanduxolo Chembeni, communications officer from the IEC, on October 26 for confirmation of the results.
Chembeni furnished the results on the same day. The candidate won the seat previously held by the Freedom Front Plus in the 2021 municipal elections.
According to information, the ANC garnered 12.92%, DA 7.23%, Freedom Front Plus 6.3% and EFF 1.6%.
A festive atmosphere was palpable at Laerskool Kalie de Haas at 09:30, with the different political parties contesting the ward, all behind tables and banners.
Residents flocked to the school, with party officials and supporters arriving from elsewhere. Hillel Coetzer was the candidate for the Freedom Front Plus, while Thinus Janse van Vuuren represented the DA.
The ANC put Thabo Motaung forward, and Ntombi Morajane stood as a candidate for the EFF.
The Standerton Advertiser endeavoured to have a short interview with the candidates to test the waters for the results.
Janse van Vuuren said he was very positive, and he had worked hard, while Alberto Franco, DA councillor in Ward 8, also present, emphasised the division of votes.
Stoltz was positive as well and predicted a landslide win. Coetzer was philosophical and said what had to happen would happen and added voters should do their duty and cast a ballot.
The ANC said they would win the ward, while the EFF declined to comment, making no eye contact.
On his Facebook page, Stoltz thanked everyone with immense gratitude and appreciation for their overwhelming support and trust in him during the election campaign.
“It is with great honour and humility that I accept the responsibility of being elected as the independent councillor for Ward 4 in the Lekwa Municipality,” he said.
“Thank you to everyone who cast your vote in my favour. Your belief in my vision and dedication to serving our community has truly touched my heart.”
He referred to the winning percentage of 71.97%, calling it historic, saying it is a testament to the collective desire for positive change and progress in the ward.
“I know this victory would not have been possible without your unwavering support, encouragement, and hard work.
“Your willingness to engage in meaningful conversations, attend campaign events, and spread the word about my candidacy played a crucial role in our success.”
Stoltz committed himself to working tirelessly to address the issues that matter most to their community. He concluded by saying he would prioritise the concerns and needs of every resident in Ward 4, ensuring their voices are heard and interests represented.
“Together, we will strive to create a better future for our ward, one built on transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.”
