Local Government Elections Will Be Held Under New System, Says Minister

Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government Faizer Mustapha said that there is no legal provision in continuing with the Proportional Representation system in the upcoming Local Government Elections.

Speaking at a press conference today, Mustapha said that the Local Authorities Elections (Amendment) Act No 22 of 2012 has provided for the introduction of the new electoral system for local elections.

He added that, delimitation had not been done in 2012 when the Act was passed.

Delimitation is now complete and the new boundaries are Gazetted, he also said, adding that some parties have expressed their opposition at the new boundaries. These have to be resolved before the election is held, he pointed out.

Mustapha added that the government expects to hold the election by March 2016 as planned.