Siyabonga Sithole|Published
As South Africa gears up for the local government elections scheduled for November 4, 2026, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has taken decisive action to ensure a level playing field for all political entities in Gauteng.
On Tuesday, with less than three weeks until the polls, IEC CEO Sy Mamabolo addressed a gathering of political parties at the Gallagher Convention Centre, unveiling the Gauteng Provincial Electoral Code of Conduct in a ceremony aimed at reinforcing democratic principles.
Mamabolo asserted that the guidelines established are critical in promoting free and fair elections, and any infractions — including political interference, sabotage, or acts of intolerance — will be met with judicial consequences assessed by the Electoral Court.
"By signing your name today, you legally bind your organisations to support three non-negotiable operational principles," he stated, urging all parties to commit to the integrity of the electoral process.
The first of these core principles is anchored in the eradication of political interference and intimidation. Mamabolo emphasised the need to maintain stability across local regions.
"The first is the total eradication of political interference and intimidation. They cannot afford localised flashes of political volatility. The rules strictly outlaw the use of force, threat of violence, or any form of social or economic coercion against political opponents, ordinary voters, or electoral officials," he said.
Addressing the unwillingness of certain factions to allow free movement of opposition parties, Mamabolo made it clear that "no party or faction may declare any ward an informal settlement, urban area, campus, farm or township a no-go zone for other protestors."
The second principle focuses on the protection of campaign infrastructure — such as posters, banners, and billboards — which faces serious legal ramifications if damaged or defaced, classifying such actions as criminal offences.
On another pertinent note, Mamabolo highlighted the dire consequences of obstructing the IEC’s logistical operations, including voting stations.
"Any physical or administrative obstruction will result in immediate legal prosecution," said Mamabolo.
This commitment aims to guarantee that the electoral process remains unhindered and accessible to all registered political entities and independent candidates.
The third principle emphasised the commitment to substantial local discourse, recognising that local governance is vital to the daily experiences of citizens. The ceremony brought together not only political parties and independent candidates but also electoral stakeholders eager to uphold the Electoral Code of Conduct, ensuring that the upcoming elections are characterised by peace, fairness, and credibility.
"Local government is about water infrastructure, reliable electricity, refuse removal, local roads, and community safety...A free and completely unhindered media landscape is an absolute prerequisite for a credible election in our country. To make informed choices, voters rely entirely on the investigative reporting, community broadcasts, and public coverage provided by journalists. Under the legally binding provisions of the Code, all political actors bear explicit responsibilities."
Furthermore, he cautioned that any physical or administrative obstruction of the Electoral Commission's logistical operations or voting stations will result in immediate legal prosecution.