POLITICAL NEWS - The Western Cape Government has resolved to oppose the Electoral Commission's application to the Constitutional Court to postpone the local government elections.

In a statement released by the Western Cape government, Premier Alan Winde said, "As a provincial government we will oppose the postponement of the election because it risks setting a dangerous precedent whereby suffrage, and related rights, can be deferred and without following the correct constitutional process. As per the Constitution, the matter must be brought before Parliament and not the judiciary. We must ensure that our elections continue ahead as planned as this is in the best interest of our democracy."

The provincial Minister of Local Government, Anton Bredell, said holding regular elections is a key component of any democracy, one that is enshrined in our Constitution, and we must protect this right. 

"Going against a constitutionally mandated election process - as suggested by the postponement that is being sought by the Electoral Commission - is simply not something we can take lightly as the Western Cape Government. 

"If the election does get postponed, then at the very least, due process must be followed and the matter must be referred to Parliament."

The application will be heard by the Constitutional Court on Friday 20 August. The Western Cape Government will oppose the application through the provincial minister of Local Government, in his capacity as the 10th respondent in the matter.

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