Political Reporter
As the Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency braces for a crucial by-election this coming Saturday, a cloud of uncertainty looms as reports emerge of former legislator Gift Ostallos Siziba's plot to cause chaos in a bid to disrupt the voting process.
Siziba, who was recalled from parliament by the CCC's interim Secretary-General, Sengezo Tshabangu, is reportedly dissatisfied with his recall and is making frantic efforts to thwart the electoral processes.
A reliable source disclosed to this publication that Siziba was vehemently contesting his recall in court and, in the event that he is not reinstated as a candidate, he is reportedly prepared to resort to disruptive measures to ensure that voting does not take place on Saturday.
The source emphasised Siziba's discontent, stating, "Siziba is not happy about his recall and is going to great lengths to prevent the by-election. His desperation to be reinstated as a candidate is palpable, and he seems willing to cause chaos if his legal efforts fail."
According to the source, Siziba has allegedly instructed his supporters to unleash violence in the Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency if the legal route proves unsuccessful.
The aim is to create enough turmoil to disrupt the smooth conduct of the electoral process.
In a troubling revelation, the source disclosed, "In the event that Siziba fails to disrupt the voting process, he has instructed his supporters to spoil the ballot papers by writing his name on them. This is a clear attempt to undermine the integrity of the electoral process and sow confusion among voters."
Furthermore, the source added that Siziba has openly discouraged CCC supporters from casting their votes for Blessing Tembo, the CCC candidate in the by-election.
Siziba reportedly labelled Tembo as an impostor and urged his supporters to abstain from supporting the CCC even if his name is not on the ballot paper.
As the constituency awaits the Saturday showdown, the unfolding events underscore the complexity and volatility of the political landscape, raising concerns about the potential for unrest and the need for a peaceful and fair electoral process.
