The Independent South African National Civic Organization (ISANCO) has issued a scathing rebuke against the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), accusing the electoral body of unlawful political interference and jeopardizing the organization’s participation in the upcoming National and Provincial Elections.
At a media briefing held earlier today, ISANCO officials highlighted instances where they allege the IEC has violated constitutional provisions and court orders, hampering the organization’s ability to function effectively.
The crux of ISANCO’s grievances stems from recent actions taken by the IEC, notably the replacement of Dr. Zukile Luyenge as the party leader and contact person, despite an ongoing appeal against the court order mandating this change. According to ISANCO’s legal representatives, such actions contravene Section 18 of the Constitutional Act, which stipulates that court orders under appeal should not be enforced until the appeal process concludes.
Furthermore, ISANCO cited a case involving the replacement of two councilors at the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality in 2022, where the IEC has purportedly failed to approve the nominations, leaving ISANCO’s seats vacant. Despite a court order from the Mthatha High Court directing the IEC to facilitate the swearing-in of ISANCO’s councilors, the electoral body allegedly disregarded the order, prompting accusations of contempt of court.
According to ISANCO officials, these actions by the IEC demonstrate a clear political bias aimed at stifling the organization’s activities and impeding its participation in electoral processes. The organization has raised concerns over the potential financial implications and logistical challenges posed by the IEC’s alleged interference, including delays in registration for the upcoming elections and disruptions to campaign programs.
In response to these perceived injustices, ISANCO has initiated urgent legal proceedings, seeking redress from the high court. The matter is scheduled to be heard on Tuesday, the 5th of February 2024.
“This is clearly a political ploy to frustrate the organization and keep it out of contesting these upcoming elections,” remarked an ISANCO spokesperson. “It is therefore clear that the IEC is biased and not fit to facilitate the upcoming National and Provincial Elections.”
ISANCO has called for immediate intervention to address what they perceive as a threat to their constitutional rights and democratic participation, urging the judiciary to uphold the rule of law and ensure fair electoral processes.
The IEC has yet to respond to ISANCO’s allegations. However, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to challenge what it views as unjust actions and to safeguard its democratic principles.
IEC needs to be exposed, we can not have a commission running these elections as bias as IEC is at its current state. Serious reform is necessary, otherwise there will be no free and fair elections.