Elections: Threats of violence can disqualify parties - IEC
As we approach the national elections, there are unfortunately threats of election violence.
Picture: Eyewitness News
John Maytham speaks with Granville Abrahams, National General Manager Operations at Independent Electoral Commission
Listen to the interview in the audio below.
Jacob Zuma's uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) party is reportedly threatening riots and anarchy if it is kept off the ballot.
Other parties, including the Patriotic Alliance and EFF, have also been associated with using intimidation tactics.
ALSO READ:
‘There is no room for error to prepare for elections’ – IEC
IEC urges candidates and parties to adhere to Code of Conduct
Abrahams says that the Electoral Code of Conduct is now in effect, and any threats against the IEC and the elections are a violation of this.
If these threats persist, the IEC can refer this to the Electoral Court, which can impose sanctions.
These sanctions can include being disqualified from the elections.
“We have certainly brought it to the attention of all offending parties, and we are monitoring it on a regular basis.”
- Granville Abrahams, National General Manager Operations at IEC