The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Beaufort West is gearing up to contest an upcoming by-election following the resignation of three ward councillors in the municipality, which the party says shows that an alliance between the Patriotic Alliance (PA) and African National Congress (ANC) does not work.

An ANC councillor resigned in Ward 1 and two PA councillors resigned in Wards 3 and 6.

DA Beaufort West caucus leader Schaun Meyers said over the past year it had become evident that these councillors struggled to cope with the “authoritarianism” within the ANC/PA “coalition of corruption.”

Meyers noted that instead of focusing on delivering essential services to constituents, the councillors were compelled to address internal leadership deficiencies which exacerbated the financial strain on the town.

He alleged that where the ANC/PA coalition governs, corruption and cadre deployment cause the collapse of municipalities.

“The destruction of towns such as Beaufort West and Knysna are clear examples of how they govern, and serves as a stern warning to voters who will participate in the upcoming national and provincial elections on 29 May this year,” said Meyers.

The DA said it was committed to contest the by-elections that would follow these resignations, to ensure that efficient services were delivered to the Beaufort West community.