Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
07 November 2024 | 14:23 CAT

OUTA’s submission to the electoral reform consultation panel calls for a transparent, accountable system that serves all South Africans.

In a recent submission to South Africa’s Electoral Reform Consultation Panel (ERCP), the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has raised significant concerns about the inclusivity and fairness of the country’s electoral process. The submission, aimed at refining South Africa’s electoral laws, highlights key areas where greater public engagement and fairer representation for independent candidates are urgently needed.

OUTA’s Parliamentary Engagement and Research Manager, Dr. Rachel Fisher, emphasized the importance of public involvement in shaping the electoral process. “It’s not only during elections that citizens can make a difference,” Dr. Fisher stated. “Public engagement with electoral reform should be an ongoing process, not just an occasional event.”

A pivotal part of OUTA’s submission is the call for better public education on electoral changes, particularly the recent introduction of a third ballot paper allowing independent candidates to contest elections. Dr. Fisher noted that despite this landmark adjustment, there was insufficient public education surrounding the change, which left many citizens uninformed. “Independent candidates were not given the same resources and support as political parties, which creates an inherent disadvantage,” Dr. Fisher explained to Radio Islam International, adding that this discrepancy risks diminishing the competitiveness of independent candidates.

OUTA’s report also underscores the challenges faced by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) amid substantial budget cuts. The IEC’s budget was slashed by over R800 million in the years leading up to the elections, while political parties received substantial financial support. “This placed an unrealistic burden on the IEC, which was tasked with introducing a third ballot, preparing voting materials, and educating the public under constrained resources,” Dr. Fisher observed.

The report further points to the need for transparency and accessibility in public participation. While legislative channels are open for citizens to provide input, accessing the necessary information can be challenging due to complex terminology and a lack of responsive communication from government bodies.

Dr. Fisher expressed hope that OUTA’s submission will encourage the ERCP to scrutinize these issues, advocating for an electoral system that genuinely reflects the voice of all citizens. “We cannot just sit back and complain,” Dr. Fisher concluded. “Engagement is a two-way street. It’s essential that citizens are both aware of and equipped to use the avenues available for them to influence change.”

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Dr. Rachel Fisher here.