WITH the much-anticipated general elections around the corner, political parties and independent candidates have made a pledge to uphold the electoral code of conduct as they intensify their campaigning.
The pledge signing was hosted by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in Midrand, Joburg on Thursday, 4 April.
Addressing leaders of different parties, IEC chairman Sy Mamabolo emphasised the significance of the code in upholding democratic values and ensuring peaceful elections and also stressed the responsibility of political leaders in fostering a peaceful society, irrespective of party affiliations.
“While the leaders present here today represent a fraction of the 325 political parties contesting these elections, each party, regardless of size or representation, as well as independent candidates, must adhere to the Code of Conduct.
“This entails taking reasonable steps to ensure compliance, committing to the principles of free expression and democratic debate, and recognising the authority of the Electoral Commission in the conduct of elections,” he said.
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Mamabolo said prohibited behaviors such as violence incitement and spreading false information must be swiftly addressed with accountability measures.
Rise Mzansi leader Songezo Zibi pledged to uphold the Electoral Code of Conduct, emphasising his commitment to constitutional values.
Rise Mzansi is one of many newly formed political parties that will be contesting the elections for the first time on 29 May.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) treasurer general Omphile Maotwe also signed the pledge on behalf of her party.
ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba said: “On behalf of thousands of ActionSA activists around the country, I affirm ActionSA will abide by the National Election 2024 Code of Conduct, and work with the IEC to ensure free and fair elections.”
Other political parties that signed the pledge included Patriotic Alliance, ANC and DA, among others.
