The ATM is overjoyed with the result in Nyandeni Ward 21 in the OR Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape. We are not surprised by the result, as the strict adherence to the values and principles driving the ATM can be clearly seen by voters who elect to invest their support in a future of ATM rule according to the highest ethical and moral standards.

 The ATM received 30% of the total votes cast.
 ANC support, in an ANC stronghold, had been reduced by 16 percentage points – a swing of more than 20% away from the ANC to the ATM.
 EFF support had been reduced by 7 percentage points – a 70% swing away from the EFF to the ATM.
 UDM support had been reduced by 3 percentage points – a 60% swing away from the UDM to the ATM.

Unfortunately, the Nyandeni by-election is also remarkable for the foul play and the cheating of the ANC. The ANC regressed, despite the solemn promises and undertakings of its leader, President Ramaphosa, that deception and criminality and guile and corruption will be weeded, and returned to its old reckless and malicious behaviour:
● At the Upper Matanzima voting station, ATM functionaries were prevented from entering the venue for nearly an hour while the Presiding Officer and his Deputy were busy inside.
● A ballot box containing marked ballots was discovered in Xolweni. A Presiding Officer was terminated for this carelessness.
● The voters list contained names of deceased people, and the records show that ballots had been issued on these names.
● In certain VD’s a marking pen, instead of the prescribed ink, was used to identify voters receiving a ballot – a blatant violation of procedure, opening opportunity for cheating.
● Several people presented as many as three different ID’s, and voted three times.
● An ATM member had been assaulted by ANC members.
● In Bantini, known as an ATM stronghold, only 33 ATM votes were recorded – a clear indication of deceit.

Today commentators who formerly ignored the ATM are calling this result “an incredible number for the ATM”; “superb showing by ATM in super safe ANC seat”; “very impressive”.

Dawie Scholtz tweeted, “The ATM could have a consequential impact on the election. They’re not being polled. Could be a surprise.”
He added, “ATM is now my dark horse pick for biggest overperformer vs. expectations in this election. They should be taken (somewhat) seriously.” (Sic)

We concur.

Issued by The African Transformation Movement