Political parties competing in the upcoming local government elections have officially pledged their commitment to a peaceful, free, and fair democratic process by signing the Electoral Code of Conduct. 

The signing ceremony served as a unified front against political violence, intimidation, and disinformation, with leaders emphasising that the integrity of the democratic process transcends individual political ambitions.

Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) commissioner Judge Dhaya Pillay issued a stern warning to all parties regarding the legal weight of the document. 

She emphasised that strict compliance with the code is paramount, noting that non-compliance carries severe legal consequences with violators facing fines of up to R2 000 and imprisonment for up to ten years.

ActionSA president Herman Mashaba stated that Wednesday’s convening reflects a collective consensus that democracy is larger than any single political party or candidate.

"By signing the Electoral Code of Conduct, we publicly demonstrate that ActionSA holds electoral integrity in high regard, not just for ourselves, but out of respect for the voters whose support we seek," Mashaba said.

He committed his party to campaigning peacefully and responsibly within the IEC's rules, while maintaining that political competition should remain vigorous but free from violence.

Mashaba noted that the highly contested local government elections should serve as a platform for presenting plans to fix broken municipalities rather than an arena for intimidation, violence, or the deliberate spreading of false information.

"In signing the Electoral Code of Conduct, we commit ourselves to respecting the voters. We will also continue to respect our opponents," he added.

DA federal chairperson Solly Msimanga emphasised that ensuring a peaceful election requires effort long before citizens head to the polls.

"Peaceful elections do not start on election day, but in the campaign leading up to the actual election day," Msimanga stated.

He affirmed the DA's commitment to protecting the integrity, freedom, and fairness of the 2026 elections, ensuring that campaigning is conducted freely and without any form of voter intimidation.

Other political leaders echoed these sentiments, framing the upcoming elections as a crucial moment for democratic choice.

ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula described the elections as a vital milestone for accountability. 

He stated that the ANC signed the code with a clear commitment to credible and peaceful elections, explicitly rejecting violence, lies, and disinformation while affirming respect for the lawful processes of the IEC.

EFF secretary-general Marshall Dlamini committed his party to peaceful elections and urged members to respect voters. Dlamini also made a direct call to law enforcement agencies to secure the elections and protect citizens without taking political sides.

IFP national organiser Albert Mncwango reminded attendees that with only a few weeks remaining before the vote, “true democracy cannot exist under a cloud of fear”.

Mncwango explained that a genuinely free election requires an environment where citizens can safely hear differing views and engage in political activities without threat.