IEC warns govt budget cuts could impact meeting amended electoral law requirements

Source: EWN Traffic
Author: Lindsay Dentlinger

CAPE TOWN - The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has warned government's budget cuts could impact meeting the requirements of the amended electoral law that will allow independent candidates to contest the May election.

The commission hopes that the National Treasury will enable it to hold onto its savings to make up any shortfall.

Parliament's Home Affairs committee heard on Tuesday that planned budget cuts for the commission in the next two financial years, mean the 2026 local government election will not be fully funded.

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The IEC said changes to the Electoral Act would have knock-on effects on its preparations and mostly on its budget.

Among these is the introduction of a third ballot paper as explained by the IEC's chief financial officer - Dawn Mbatha.

"The impact of the increase in the ballot paper on the electoral material, such as ballot boxes, security seals, as well as ballot booths - all this has a ripple effect on other components."

The IEC said it also needs to amend its electronic systems in line with the amended law, and more staff will be needed to count the votes.

"There's also a high probability that there will be increased litigation."

The IEC has a budget of R2.3 billion in 2024 after being cut by R281 million.