Political parties vow upcoming polls won’t have disruptions, intimidation, unfair electioneering
A total of 52 parties will contest for seats in the National Assembly in what’s been described as the most competitive and most volatile election since 1994.
Political parties and independent candidates contesting the 29 May elections gathered at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on 4 April 2024 for the signing of Electoral Code of Conduct. Picture: Nokukhanya Mntambo/Eyewitness News
JOHANNESBURG - Political parties vying for the upcoming general elections told the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) that there would be no disruptions, intimidation, or unfair electioneering on their watch.
A total of 52 parties will contest for seats in the National Assembly in what’s been described as the most competitive and most volatile election since 1994.
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With over a month to go to the 29 May polls, there are renewed fears that the democratic process will be overshadowed by dirty politics.
Chairperson of the IEC, Mosotho Moepya, said the signing of the Electoral Code of Conduct was significant for the upcoming elections.
"This code provides the framework for conduct that is consistent with the vision of our democratic forebearers who envisioned a society that is at peace with itself and all its constituents.
"It is a statutory instrument for realising free and fair elections, requiring profound political leadership in its observance."
Build One South Africa’s (BOSA) Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster was among party officials at the signing in Midrand on Thursday.
"We’ve got to watch, we’ve got to be vigilant as political parties and as citizens, we’ve got to be vigilant and be able to report instances where there is an undermining of free and fair elections.
"The plans are there from the IEC, the framework is there but we’ve got to make sure that we hold them to account on that."