African observer missions declare SA polls free & fair but raise concerns over voter education

JOHANNESBURG - International election observers say not enough voter education was provided by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) on independent candidates and the third ballot.

Earlier on Friday, three African observer missions released their preliminary reports on South Africa’s elections.

Due to an amendment to the Electoral Act, for the first time ever, independent candidates were allowed to contest in the general elections, resulting in the third regional ballot.

According to the three African observer missions, South Africa’s elections were free and fair.

They are the Southern African Democratic Community (SADC), the African Union and the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy.

While the missions noted some challenges like voting stations opening late and technical glitches, they said that the electoral process was generally free and peaceful.

However, SADC observer mission head, Enock Kavindele, said that they observed many voters were confused about some electoral processes.

"It was the view of some stakeholders that not enough civic and voter registration education was provided by the IEC to sensitise the voters on the new law reforms relating to the introduction of independent candidates, the third ballot paper and the implication of Section 24A."

The missions have recommended that government debate and pass new electoral amendments well ahead of elections.