EFF Mayoral Candidate Justice Dabampe Faces Charges of Electoral Intimidation

Senior Political Figure Arrested Amidst Allegations

Justice Dabampe, a prominent member of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), North West deputy provincial secretary, and mayoral candidate for Lekwa-Teemane, was arrested on allegations of intimidating electoral officials and contravening the Electoral Act during South Africa’s 2026 local government election process.

Dabampe, who also serves as a convocation president and council member at the University of South Africa (Unisa), was taken into custody on Monday. On the same day, he appeared before the Christiana Magistrate’s Court and was released on R500 police bail. He is expected to return to court on 12 November as investigations into the matter continue.

Incident at Christiana Voting Station

Police spokesperson Colonel Adèle Myburgh explained that the arrest stemmed from an incident at a voting station in Christiana. She confirmed that the authorities are investigating charges related to contravention of the Electoral Act 73 of 1998 as well as intimidation.

According to the information provided, a presiding electoral officer reported that a group of between 10 and 15 individuals arrived at the voting station. Some of these individuals were wearing political party regalia, and one was allegedly carrying a camera. Others in the group reportedly recorded a man who had arrived to vote.

Dispute Over Accreditation

The presiding officer questioned the group’s right to take photographs and videos inside the voting station, asking whether they were properly accredited. In response, one individual, accompanying the cameraman, identified him as his photographer.

During the interaction, this man allegedly threatened to destroy ballot papers if he was not allowed to cast his vote.

“IEC officials allowed him to cast his vote, while taking videos,”

said Myburgh.

Ongoing Investigation and Call for Electoral Peace

Colonel Myburgh stated that the investigation is still ongoing. She urged all party supporters to adhere to the Electoral Code of Conduct and emphasized the importance of allowing the voting process to unfold in a free and fair manner.

The Electoral Act mandates strict guidelines regarding conduct at voting stations, including rules about accreditation for media and observers, aiming to protect the integrity and smooth functioning of the electoral process.

Dabampe’s Roles Extending Beyond Politics

In addition to representing the EFF and holding a legislative seat in the North West province, Dabampe was elected as Unisa’s convocation president in June 2024 for a four-year term. This role places him on Unisa’s highest decision-making body, the university council – further raising the public profile of the ongoing legal matter.

Dabampe did not offer comment regarding the allegations, instead referring queries to Unisa. Boitumelo Senokoane, spokesperson for Unisa, stated that Dabampe was on holiday and would attend to work-related matters shortly.

Broader Significance for the Electoral Process

Cases of alleged intimidation and breaches of electoral law often raise concerns about the atmosphere around the voting process. Such incidents may place pressure on the independence and safety of electoral officials, as well as public confidence in the democratic process.

Authorities regularly remind all political parties and supporters to comply with not only the letter but also the spirit of the electoral regulations, upholding an environment free of intimidation and unlawful influence.

With investigations ongoing and Dabampe set to return to court, the case will draw attention to the challenges of enforcing fair elections, the responsibilities of party officials, and the mechanisms in place to address alleged misconduct.

What Comes Next?

The court hearing scheduled for 12 November is expected to provide further clarity on the case and the evidence gathered during the police investigation. Until then, electoral authorities and political leaders continue to urge all participants to ensure the peaceful, lawful conduct of the election process.