Simmers files court papers over PA vote-buying allegations in George

Tertuis Simmers, DA leader in the Western Cape, says he has filed sworn affidavits and supporting material in the High Court concerning allegations that the Patriotic Alliance (PA) bought votes in three George by-elections. He alleges voters in Conville, Rosemoor and Pacaltsdorp were offered tik and cash in exchange for their votes; the PA won those contests earlier this year. The filing follows a seven-day ultimatum from the PA demanding evidence and a police case number, or a withdrawal of the claims and an apology. Simmers says the concerns had been referred to the Independent Electoral Commission, but he knows of no conclusive response, and called for an independent police investigation.