THE legal battle hanging over Fremantle’s Coastal Ward has stretched out until at least June.

Former councillor Marija Vujcic’s challenge against her successor, Jemima Williamson-Wong’s election win last October was back for a quick mention in the Fremantle Magistrate’s Court last week. 

Cr Williamson-Wong won the seat by 71 votes after preferences, but Ms Vujcic, along with the Greater Fremantle Community and Business Group, say that’s too close to call given a major stuff-up by the WA Electoral Commission. 

The WAEC mixed up the ballot papers for Coastal and Central Wards prior to the election, although there’s been no challenge against Cr Geoff Graham’s win in the latter.

Cr Williamson-Wong says she joined the legal proceedings as an interested party “to understand what was going on” in the process concerning her election. 

“The reason I joined wasn’t to persuade one way or another, but to provide information and understand what’s going on as the process unfolds,” Cr Williamson-Wong said. 

“I absolutely believe democracy requires transparency and accountability, so I’m supportive of that.”  

Cr Williamson-Wong said her legal fees were being covered pro-bono in a private agreement with Hammond Legal, and not by the Fremantle council. 

Cr Williamson-Wong, 21, has had to face several hurdles since her election six months ago. 

In December, flyers were distributed to letterboxes around coastal ward criticising her age and questioned her ability to serve on council, citing “inexperience”. 

The case will continue with a procedural hearing in June.

by KATHERINE KRAAYVANGER