DA and PA clash over alleged ‘tik-for-votes’ scandal
· The South African
DA Western Cape leader Tertuis Simmers says he has submitted sworn affidavits and supporting evidence to the Western Cape High Court over allegations that the Patriotic Alliance (PA) used drugs and cash to influence voters.
The allegations relate to three by-elections in George earlier this year, which the PA won.
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Simmers claims voters were offered tik, money and food parcels in exchange for electoral support.
The PA has strongly denied the allegations.
Simmers submits evidence to court
The dispute escalated after the PA gave Simmers seven days to provide evidence supporting his claims or withdraw them and apologise.
Simmers subsequently announced that he had filed responding court papers.
The DA politician said he stood by his allegations and believed the evidence warranted an independent investigation.
“You asked for evidence. I have submitted it. Now let the legal process take its course,” Simmers said.
He maintained that concerns about alleged vote-buying had previously been referred to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC).
However, he said he was unaware of any conclusive outcome from those referrals.
Simmers also called for police to investigate any evidence of criminal conduct.
Gayton McKenzie rejects allegations
PA leader Gayton McKenzie has rejected Simmers’ allegations, accusing him of insulting voters and questioning their ability to make independent political decisions.
The PA described the allegations as hearsay and demanded specific details about any complaints submitted to police or the IEC.
These included police case numbers, dates and relevant references for complaints.
The party said it did not tolerate vote-buying and would cooperate with investigations into such allegations.
The disputed by-elections took place in Conville, Rosemoor and Pacaltsdorp, where the PA secured victories earlier this year.