Somila Gqaliwe|Published
DA Western Cape leader Tertuis Simmers has defended his remarks about alleged vote-buying in George, saying he never referred to coloured communities as “Tik koppe”, after Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie accused him of insulting coloured voters.
In a statement posted in the comments section of the Cape Times Facebook page, Simmers sought to clarify comments made during a BizNews interview, saying social media posts had misrepresented what he said.
“During the interview, I raised three specific concerns relating to alleged electoral misconduct during previous by-elections in George,” Simmers said.
He alleged that he had personally witnessed food parcels being delivered to voters’ homes in circumstances that raised concerns about possible attempts to influence their votes.
Matters escalated to IEC
Simmers also said he had observed queues outside a residence associated with an individual who now serves in Parliament. He said allegations had been raised about cash being offered in exchange for votes.
Regarding the third allegation, Simmers said residents of Conville and Pacaltsdorp had brought information to his attention about young people allegedly being offered tik in exchange for votes. He stressed that he had not personally witnessed these alleged incidents.
According to Simmers, photographic and video material relating to the first two matters had been submitted to the IEC, while information concerning the third allegation, including vehicle details, had been referred to law enforcement authorities.
He emphasised that the allegations had been referred for assessment and should not be treated as established findings of wrongdoing.
“At no stage did I describe coloured communities, or any community, as drug users,” he said.
Simmers added that he respected the dignity of residents regardless of their race, community or political affiliation, arguing that raising concerns about possible electoral misconduct was different from insulting voters.
McKenzie challenges Simmers over allegations
The clarification comes after Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie rejected allegations that drugs and cash had been offered in exchange for votes in George. McKenzie has challenged Simmers over the claims.
In a video posted on social media, McKenzie expressed outrage over Simmers’ remarks, saying: “Simmers thinks colored people cannot think for themselves”.
He also called Simmers a “vuil gat” and claimed that Simmers had stolen electricity in George, Western Cape.
McKenzie ended the video by saying: “We will teach you ‘Simmers’ a lesson”.
Simmers has stood by his decision to refer the information to the relevant authorities, while acknowledging their responsibility to establish the facts. He urged the public to watch the full BizNews interview rather than rely on selected extracts or social media interpretations.
“Let the facts speak for themselves,” he said.