The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) is the country’s independent election management body, responsible for overseeing national, provincial, and municipal elections. Established under Chapter Nine of the South African Constitution, the IEC ensures that elections are conducted fairly, transparently, and in accordance with democratic principles.
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History of the IEC
The roots of the IEC date back to 1993, when an interim Electoral Commission was created to manage South Africa’s first non-racial election in April 1994—a historic moment marking the country’s transition to democracy. The permanent Electoral Commission was officially established on 17 October 1996, solidifying its role in maintaining the integrity of South Africa’s electoral process.
Since its inception, the IEC has been led by several distinguished chairpersons:
- Johann Kriegler (1997–1999)
- Brigalia Bam (1999–2011)
- Pansy Tlakula (2011–2014)
- Glen Mashinini (2015–2022)
- Mosotho Moepya (2022–present)
Role and Responsibilities
The IEC’s core functions include:
Organizing and managing free and fair elections for the National Assembly, provincial legislatures, and municipal councils.
Registering voters and political parties.
Conducting voter education to promote democratic participation.
Monitoring and enforcing electoral laws and regulations.
Overseeing candidate nominations and election results.
How to Register to Vote
South African citizens 18 years and older can register to vote online or at their local IEC office. The registration process is quick and ensures your participation in shaping the country’s future.
Contact Details
For any election-related inquiries, you can contact the IEC through the following:
Head Office
Election House, Riverside Office Park, 1303 Heuwel Avenue, Centurion, 0157
Phone: 012 622 5700
Email: info@elections.org.za
The IEC remains a pillar of South Africa’s democracy, ensuring that elections are credible, transparent, and inclusive. Whether you’re voting for the first time or a seasoned voter, your participation matters!