The IEC has introduced the Disinformation Code to ensure fair local elections on 4 November.
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The IEC has introduced the Disinformation Code,effective from September 4,to ensure fair local elections on 4 November.The code mandates accuracy,transparency,and accountability in election-related communication,both online and offline.Parties and candidates are expected to report instances of online disinformation within 36 hours of becoming aware of them.For more political news,visit Politics News.The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) wants to enhance election integrity and promote free,fair,and orderly local government elections ahead of the 4 November municipal elections.
This is why the IEC has promulgated the Electoral Code of Conduct Countering Disinformation in the Local Government Elections,also known as the Disinformation Code.
Published in the government gazette on Friday,the Disinformation Code permits lawful criticism,opinion,commentary,fair reporting,satire,parody or legitimate democratic debate “insofar as these fall within the realm of protected speech”.
The IEC said the Disinformation Code was issued under Section 88(a) of the Local Government: Municipal Electoral Act 27 of 2000 and is part of the Electoral Code of Conduct.
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The commission stated:
Meaning,the Disinformation Code is subject to the same sanctions application in the contravention of the Electoral Code of Conduct as contemplated in the Act.
The IEC further stated that the code provides guardrails for the conduct of political parties,candidates,and anyone acting on the instruction or authority of political parties or candidates,or for reward across all election-related communication,whether online or offline,paid or unpaid.
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“The code protects legitimate debate and robust debate,” the commission said.
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Parties and candidates are now expected to:
Check information for accuracy before sharing it,and take responsibility for content published by them,on their behalf,or for them. Publicly retract and correct any false or misleading information within 36 hours of becoming aware of it,and censure those responsible where appropriate.Avoid deceptive practices – including fake accounts,bot networks,coordinated inauthentic behaviour,doxing and cyberbullying. Label AI-generated (“synthetic”) content clearly before distributing it. Clearly label political advertising,so the public can identify who is behind it. Report instances of online disinformation to Real411 within 36 hours of becoming aware of them. Promote awareness of the code among their members and supporters,and support broader efforts on media literacy and voter education.
The code also specifically prohibits disinformation targeting the Electoral Commission or its staff,and requires parties and candidates to correct it publicly when it occurs.
“The Disinformation Code is effective immediately from the date of publication,being 4 September 2026,until the declaration of the election results.
“Political parties and candidates will undertake to comply with the Disinformation Code as part of their public commitment during the electoral code of conduct signing ceremony on 23 September 2026,” the commission added.
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