APA-Johannesburg (South Africa) Ten South African opposition parties have expressed dissatisfaction with the recently announced national elections timetable, describing it as “unjust” on Tuesday and seeking an urgent meeting with the country’s electoral body.
In a joint statement, the parties – African Congress for Transformation, African Transformation Movement, African People’s Convention, Azanian People’s Organisation, Build One South Africa, Land Party, uMkhonto weSizwe Party, Rise Mzansi, United African Transformation and United Democratic Movement – said they have written to Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) chief electoral officer Sy Mamabolo seeking a meeting to address issues they believe may affect the integrity and inclusivity of the elections.
They outlined the key issues they want addressed as the election timetable, challenges around the signature requirements, the deadline for candidate lists set for March 8, the deadline for registration fees, and voter education.
The parties’ apprehension arises from the compressed timetable, starting with the submission of IEC lists, which they argue does not allow for adequate participation and engagement from all stakeholders.
The IEC published the provisional voters’ roll for inspection on Monday, with those with queries given until March 8 to do so.
The commission has until March 11 to consider, investigate and determine objections received on or before March 4.
Following the determination of voters’ roll objections, the chief electoral officer is expected to certify the voters’ roll on March 12.
Those with objections against certain prospective candidates have until March 27 to lodge objections with the IEC.
The opposition parties believe the compressed timetable falls short of ensuring all necessary processes, including voter education, collection of prospective support lists for new parties, and preparation are conducted effectively.
“As representatives committed to the ideals of free and fair elections, we urge the IEC to reconsider and extend the submission deadline to facilitate a more inclusive and informed electoral process,” the parties said.
The parties also took aim at the challenges faced by new political entrants during registration, citing the hurdle of collecting signatures and identity numbers as presenting a barrier to entry for emerging political entities.
“We believe such requirements not only impede the principles of a multiparty democratic system but also disproportionately affect new and smaller parties,” the parties said.
They urged the electoral commission to review the contested registration processes to ensure they are inclusive, transparent, and compliant with legislation.
“As stakeholders committed to the principles of free and fair elections, we are deeply invested in the success of the democratic process in South Africa.”
South Africa is set to go to the seventh democratic general elections on May 29, with the IEC announcing the electoral calendar on February 24.
JN/APA