Parties sing same tune

Leaders of political parties this morning signed the Electoral Code of Ethics at Gallagher Convention Centre.

Political parties contesting the upcoming local government elections signed an Electoral Code of Conduct on 16 May.

Addressing those in attendance, Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Glen Mashinini said the code served as the rules of the game for elections.

“The electoral Act requires that the Code of Conduct must be subscribed to by all parties and candidates before they may be allowed to contest an election. This ensures that all contestants are aware of the rules of the game before it is played. The purpose of the conduct is to ensure level playing field,” explained Mashinini.

Leaders and representatives of 13 political parties represented in parliament signed the pledge that commits them uphold and promote the code of ethics.

Parties also said a short statement of commitment before signing the code.

Being the first party to make their pledge, leader of the African Christian Democratic Party Kenneth Meshoe said for the paly field to be level, all political parties needed to receive the same amount of coverage on SABC.

Responding to Meshoe, Leader of the African National Congress, (ANC) Jacob Zuma said they look forward to successful elections. “No person or party will receive preference over another person,” said Zuma. He emphasised that his party will uphold the code.

In his statement, Leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) Mmusi Maimane said his party will respect the code as it is enshrined in the constitution. He also called for international observers in the upcoming local government elections.

On behalf of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Magdelene Moonsamy pleaded for the IEC to be accountable as much as they expect accountability from parties. She said the IEC needed to make sure that their employees are not affiliated to any political party.

Mashinini also mentioned that since municipal elections are contested by a large number of local parties and independent candidates, similar events as this one will follow at provinces over the coming weeks.

Parties who are found to have contravened the electoral code must be reported to the Electoral Court which has jurisdiction in respect of all electoral disputes and complaints about infringements. Mashinini said any citizen has the right to approach the court directly to report allegations of violations of the code supported by necessary evidence. Cases where criminality is involved such as the defacing or damage of property should be reported to the police.