As political campaigns intensify ahead of the Local Government Elections on November 4, parties and candidates must abide by strict ground rules.

Before participating in the elections or being placed on an official candidate list, every registered party and candidate must agree to the legally binding Electoral Code of Conduct.

Contained within the Electoral Act, the Code ensures that elections are free, fair, and conducted in an atmosphere of open debate and safety.

What Parties and Candidates Must Do

Under the Code, political parties and candidates commit to maintaining peace and cooperating with democratic institutions. They must:

• Speak out against violence: Publicly condemn political violence, threats, and intimidation against rival parties, the IEC, the public, and journalists.
• Coordinate public events: Inform local authorities about planned marches or rallies and communicate with other political parties to avoid scheduling conflicts.
• Respect democratic institutions: Recognise the authority of the IEC, support its structures, and assist law enforcement in investigating electoral crimes or violence.
• Accept results: Abide by official election outcomes or challenge results strictly through established court procedures.
• Promote voter rights: Educate the public about the Code and inform voters that everyone has the right to hold political beliefs, join any party, and participate freely in campaigns, marches, or public meetings.

Prohibited Conduct: What Is Illegal?

To protect voters and maintain the integrity of the election, the Code strictly forbids:

• Using language that incites or provokes violence.
• Intimidating voters or rival candidates.
• Publishing false information or fake news about political opponents.
• Plagiarising another party’s symbols, name, or acronym.
• Offering bribes, rewards, or financial inducements to influence a vote.
• Defacing, removing, or destroying campaign posters of other parties.
• Carrying arms or weapons at political meetings, rallies, or marches.
• Abusing positions of power, privilege, or official influence to manipulate election outcomes.

Consequences of Breaching the Code

Breaching the Electoral Code of Conduct carries serious legal penalties:

How Citizens Can Report Violations

The Electoral Court holds official jurisdiction over all electoral disputes and infringements of the Code. If you suspect a political party or candidate has committed a breach, you can report the incident directly to the Secretary of the Electoral Court by calling 051 412 7400.

Formal proceedings and complaints are governed by the published Electoral Court Rules – Proceedings and Electoral Court Rules – Disputes and Complaints.