29 Aug 2019

Though standing for elections as an independent candidate is a right protected by the constitution, it is a headache to Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), especially if they are many.

This emerged during the IEC’s sensitisation of prospective candidates, returning and senior police officers on issues relating to state of preparedness, election expenses, presidential nominations, offences, corrupt and illegal practices as well as code of conduct.

Speaking at the event, chief election officer, Mr Jacob Motlhanka cited independent candidates as one of challenges the IEC was facing, as they came with cost implications. He said processing their applications and designing ballot papers became a cumbersome and costly exercise, particularly when independents were many.

Mr Motlkanka also reminded prospective candidates that they were required to produce a report accounting for their election expenses.

He said within 90 days after release of results they should report on all their expenses incurred after issuance of a writ, and that the report should show all paid expenses, unpaid, undisputed and disputed expenses and sources of finances.

He stated that the returning officer must report to the Attorney General candidates who had not submitted returns after 90 days. He added that successful candidates who had not submitted their returns were guilty of illegal practice and would not be allowed to sit or vote in Parliament or council until they submitted.

He said the returns would remain in the custody of the returning officers for six months from date of receipt. He added that any person may inspect them and could make copies for P20 per return. At the expiry of six months, the returning officer may destroy the return or hand them back to the person who rendered it. Ends