Northern Cape political parties pledge to election rules

A muttering was heard amongst Northern Cape political parties attending the Electoral Commission’s (IEC) pledge-signing ceremony, in reaction to a representative of the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK) declaring that they would rule the province after the election.

The code of conduct pledge ceremony was attended on Thursday, 18 April, by most of the parties contesting the election in the province. They all signed at their party emblems on a pledge board at the Flamingo Casino in Kimberley.

Some 31 parties are participating in the elections in the province.

Violet Phatshoane, deputy judge president, oversaw the signing.

Dr Tumelontle Thiba, provincial electoral officer in the North West, was the programme director. She urged parties not to campaign during their pledge, but to commit to honour the principles and rules of the upcoming national and provincial election.

Most parties did so, with some resorting to some kind of campaigning. One of them was Boipelo Jarvis of the MK, who said the party would take over the Northern Cape. She also said the party wanted to restore the royal status of the Khoisan and Batswana, the indigenous peoples. This was met by muttering.

The pledge recognises that contestants can canvass support without fear, that voters can choose freely who they want to support, and that contestants must reinforce a culture of tolerance.

Masego Sheburi, deputy chief of electoral operations, explained that a special election court was set up on the day the election date was determined and was in session until the results were declared.

“Elections call for tolerance amongst all, and allow an environment of robust debate and fair campaigns.

“It is an offence to deface other parties’ election posters or intimidate voters.

“Alleged offences are investigated by the IEC and evidence brought to the election court as soon as possible. Offenders like candidates, parties or supporters could be fined and they or their parties, or both, can be barred from contesting, depending on the seriousness of the offence.

“Parties can forfeit their election deposits and registration and candidates can be disqualified.

“The offences can also be heard in a criminal court in a parallel process.

“We must respect our democracy, as it came with a struggle, sacrifice, and determination,” Sheburi said.