Lerato Mbhiza
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is proposing a free-increment for parties wanting to participate in the 2024 National General Elections.
Political parties can expect to pay up to R300 000 to contest the elections and all regional polls, an increase of R100 000. While contesting a provincial election only will cost R45 000 per poll.
The IEC has also proposed a deposit of R20 000 and R15 000 for independent candidates contesting a national election and for provincial legislature, a first, to minimise frivolity and to ensure contestants are serious about their participation.
Deposits were last adjusted in 2014 and the public has until 27 August to comment on the proposed fee structures and regulations.
The new regulations have been published for public comment and form part of the Electoral Amendment Act promulgated in April, which allows independent candidates to contest national and provincial elections.
The new amendment will also allow members to register a political party online. It also clarifies that a party’s distinguishing symbol as registered with the IEC, will also be the one used on the ballot paper.
The IEC says the amount proposed for National Assembly elections is being adjusted for inflation.
The proposed regulations also facilitate the nomination of independent candidates and regulate the requirements for their participation in elections.
They further spell out activities permissible by independent candidates and their agents outside voting stations on voting day.
The regulations also aim to simplify the procedure for South Africans registering and voting outside of the country.
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