Former Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke has advised the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to postpone the upcoming local government elections, scheduled for October, to no later than the end of February 2022, reasoning that the elections will not be free and fair under the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.    

Addressing the media following his appointment in May by the IEC to look at whether it was possible to hold the elections, Moseneke said combatting the spread of infections would be undermined, taking into account the new variants of the virus spreading across the country.

Moseneke and a team were appointed under Section 44 of the Electoral Commission Act triggered by the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. His team had 61 days to conclude the inquiry.

Experts have informed Moseneke's team that the death risk would be much higher if the elections go ahead. 

Moseneke also said it won’t be possible for the voters roll to be prepared by October, due to the lockdown regulations.

In his report, he said public opinion was also taken into consideration, including the opinions of political parties and stakeholders, such as civil society, Nedlac, the Department of Health and even the National Coronavirus Command Council on Covid-19.

Medical experts and scientists were also consulted on the research and data and Moseneke stressed that the outcome was determined by consultations and not out of any political bias.

Moseneke said freedom to participate in free and fair elections is a fundamental right that should not be undermined.

Experts have also advised Moseneke’s team that it is impossible for South Africa to reach herd immunity by October.

Professor of Vaccinology and Director of the Vaccines & Infectious Diseases Analytics Research Unit at University of the Witwatersrand, and Chief Investigator on the trial in South Africa Shabir Madhi said major risks lie in the period leading up to the elections day.

Other experts also advised Moseneke’s team that the elections will put thousands of South Africans at risk of contracting the Covid-19 virus.

He added that gatherings are likely to be a hindrance to smaller political parties while the larger parties will be able to use other platforms to engage with the voters. 

Moseneke said while they acknowledge that the elections should be held soon, it should not be done by risking lives.

IEC Chair Glen Mashinini said the commission will study the report in detail to get a clear understanding of the decisions made.

Over the coming days the IEC will consult with political parties and relevant stakeholders.

The commission will also publish the report to allow the public access.