The government is considering postponing the municipal elections until mid-2006 to allow for re-demarcation disputes to be resolved, Independent Online reported on Monday.
It said this would entail bringing a constitutional amendment to Parliament which could push back the deadline for the polls by up to two months to May.
Deputy Justice Minister Johnny de Lange confirmed that postponement was an option being weighed in the wake of the re-demarcation process.
This process, which is aimed at doing away with cross-border municipalities, has sparked violent protests in some communities.
In the latest, several businesses were looted this weekend in the township of Khutsong near Carletonville on the West Rand after three days of protests.
More than 6 000 residents went on the rampage, protesting against a proposal to move Merafong municipality, which includes Carletonville, from Gauteng to the North West province.
Independent Online said once the re-demarcation processes were completed, new voters rolls would have to be compiled which could take more time.
In addition, Parliament was due to pass an amendment to the cross-border legislation this week.
The changes could affect some of the Demarcation Board’s draft proposals which, with the protests, could cause more delays.
At present, the board has a month-end deadline to finalise its proposals, which, if adopted, will result in changes being made to the boundaries of five of the nine provinces.
De Lange said a constitutional amendment to resolve the problem was not being considered seriously at this stage.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) said the deadline for announcing the elections was March 6.
”The elections must take place within 90 days of the expiry date of the present councils which is on December 5, 2005,” said IEC spokesperson Lydia Young.
This meant the date of the election could not be announced later than March 6. The IEC needed about 60 days to prepare for the elections.
A constitutional amendment could give a reprieve until May 6. – Sapa