Statement by Samkelo Mgobozi, GOOD National Campaign Manager
07 July 2021
GOOD notes the decision by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) to postpone the Voter Registration Weekend from 17 & 18 July 2021 to 31 July and 01 August 2021.
GOOD cautiously welcomes this decision by the nation’s electoral authority provided that this postponement of the Voter Registration does not result in the delay of the 27 October 2021 election date. GOOD Secretary-General, Brett Herron, communicated as much in this afternoon’s meeting of the IEC National Party Liaison Committee.
While GOOD appreciates the pressures associated with holding an election during a pandemic, in its engagements with the IEC the party has clearly communicated that it would be unconstitutional to delay the poll.
The IEC does not have the discretion to delay the elections.
Free and fair elections are possible as long as the contestants have the same opportunity to campaign, voters have the unfettered opportunity to express their will, and the outcome of the elections reflects the will of the voters.
The IEC should consider what steps it can take to ensure safe and equitable access to the voting stations – including giving thought to extending the period for special votes to be cast.