South Africa's Electoral Commission Meets with US Ambassador Ahead of May Elections

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) of South Africa met with the United States ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, ahead of the country's upcoming south africa election on May 29, 2024. The meeting has sparked controversy and allegations of US influence, despite the IEC's assurances that they also met with EU and Latin American ambassadors to discuss election readiness.

Civil society groups, such as Democracy in Action, have demanded the IEC make the meeting minutes public, while the Democratic Alliance party wrote a letter to the US asking them to observe the elections. However, Professor Zwelinzima Ndevu from Stellenbosch University stated that such meetings between the IEC and foreign diplomats are not uncommon.

The IEC has clarified that it has also met with European Union and Latin American ambassadors on the same basis to assure them of holding credible elections. The meeting with the US ambassador drew criticism from some political figures, such as former ANC MP Tony Yengeni and former PAC leader Letlapa Mphahlele, who expressed concerns about US involvement in South Africa's elections.

Why this matters: The controversy surrounding the meeting between the IEC and the US ambassador highlights the sensitivity around foreign influence in South Africa's electoral process. The upcoming elections on May 29 are expected to be closely contested, with the ruling African National Congress party potentially losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since the end of apartheid in 1994.

The IEC defended the meeting, stating that it is a standard practice to engage with diplomats ahead of general elections to discuss election readiness. The commission also said it is focused on ensuring that election materials are distributed in a timely manner for the 2024 elections. "The US delegation expressed confidence in the IEC and its ability to deliver free and fair elections," said IEC chief electoral officer Sy Mamabolo, adding that the US will not be sending any observer groups as they believe the IEC will handle the elections effectively.

Key Takeaways

• IEC met with US, EU, and Latin American ambassadors on election readiness.
• Meeting with US ambassador sparked controversy over foreign influence allegations.
• IEC defended the meetings as standard practice to engage with diplomats.
• Upcoming 2024 elections in South Africa expected to be closely contested.
• US expressed confidence in IEC's ability to deliver free and fair elections.