The Electoral Commission (IEC) hosted a pre-election summit on 2011 Municipal Elections and 13 political parties represented at national level pledged to respect their political support and promote conditions which will ensure that this year’s elections would be free and fair.
Opening the conference, Dr Brigalia Bam, Chairperson of the IEC said: “Many times, we have all heard the world heap praises on our country for its admirable constitution and democratic institutions. While we appreciate such praises, we cannot afford to rest on our laurels or relax our vigilance...we should persist in our quest to ensure impartial, credible and free and fair elections for this year and beyond.”
Parties represented in the National Assembly participated in the summit at the Sandton Convention Centre included, African Christian Democratic Party, African National Congress, African People’s Convention, Azanian People’s Organisation, Congress of the People, Democratic Alliance, Independent Democrats, Inkatha Freedom Party, Minority Front, Pan Africanist Congress, United Christian Democratic Party, United Democratic Movement and Vryheidsfront Plus.
“We know that over the years you have learnt to expect nothing short of good quality, professionalism, and efficiency and effectiveness, which have won us the trust of many South Africans,” Bam said.
“Working with other countries, our local and international stakeholders as well as our global partners, we know that half of the battle will be won. We will, however, rely on your active participation, support and full cooperation in order to reach our objectives,” she said.
The parties pledged to conduct themselves in a manner that will reinforce a culture of tolerance towards all other parties contesting the elections and to publicly promote the eradication of no-go areas and allow for free political activity by contesting parties.
Parties indicated that they will desist from using speech or from participating in actions that will have the effect of provoking either their party’s supporters or members of the general public to commit acts of violence or intolerant behaviour.
The parties were joined by business organisations, traditional leaders, church organisations, non-governmental organisations and civil society organisations such as the Human Rights Commission, Institute for Global Dialogue, National Priority Security Committee on Elections and the Commission on Gender Equality, Independent Communications Authority of South Africa and the South African National Editors’ Forum.
Kenyan democracy campaigner, John Githongo, Chief Executive Officer of Inuka Kenya Trust, praised South Africa on its achievements but cautioned against complacency which saw Kenya, facing the challenges it did in 2007.
In the morning, discussing the role of stakeholders in promoting democracy was made the focal point with the IEC, civil society organisations, the Commission for Gender Equality, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, faith-based organisations, the South African Police Service and SANEF.
For media queries, please contact:
Kate Bapela
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For media interviews: Please e-mail request to spokesperson@elections.org.za
