Press Release 29 October 2008
For Immediate Release

African democracy institute Idasa calls on all parties who will be contesting next year’s election to immediately adopt and enforce the code of conduct stipulated in the electoral act.

“South Africa cannot afford to wait for the elections for this code of conduct to come into force. If the Independent Electoral Commission cannot insist upon compliance and policing of the code, Idasa calls on all parties to publicly subscribe to the code now and instruct all their supporters to comply with its provisions,” said Idasa Executive Director Paul Graham.

The code of conduct is designed to promote “tolerance of democratic political activity and free political campaigning and open public debate” according to the act. However, electioneering is already being accompanied by scuffles, threats and intimidation.

Idasa warns that while the presence of a strong new party signals the possibility of a genuine election contest in 2009, tension between the parties is already threatening to derail the electoral process.

“A true democracy requires a range of contesting voices. We welcome the likely emergence of a new party in that it increases the choice for voters and possibly the range of representatives within the next parliament. But South Africa must demonstrate that we are ready for greater party contestation and conduct the poll with appropriate tolerance and dignity,” Graham said.
“2009 could be the year South Africa deepens its democracy. But it could also turn out to be the year that we fail our constitution and our struggle for democracy by allowing the elections to be disrupted by violence.”

The most visible campaign is being waged by a party that does not even exist yet, but by all accounts plans to contest the election. The emergence of the “Shikota” faction has already been accompanied by tension, reflecting the ANC’s ongoing internal conflict. In some provinces this conflict has already led to the police being called upon to intervene in party meetings and rallies.

The DA has alleged that violence is also being meted out against their members and local leaders.

Idasa supports President Mothlanthe’s call on leaders to allow free political activity and stop intimidation. His leadership should be followed by the leaders of all factions and parties, and especially their youth wings.

“Civil society observers will want to ensure that communities understand the election code of conduct and will want to observe and report on the behaviour of parties and their supporters. Where law cannot protect people from intimidation and violence then the public glare and the possibility of punishment at the ballot box must suffice,” Graham said.

ENDS

For comment or any further information please contact Paul Graham on
012 3920500 or 0825713887