IEC condemns political killings
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has condemned the spate of killings of candidates as the country heads to the Local Government Elections on 3 August.
The commission says the spate of political killings, especially in KZN and Mpumalanga, is an attempt to disrupt campaigns for the elections
IEC Chairperson Glen Mashinini says the level of violence in preparation for the elections has been an important aspect.
"The commission wishes to raise its deep concern over the level of violence leading up to the Local Government Election. We condemn in the strongest terms the latest incidents," Mashinini said.
IEC CEO Mosotho Moepya said police should be given space to investigate the killings effectively.
"Where possible, these cases will be referred for mediation between parties and, if necessary, there will be other interventions. Where sufficient evidence of serious violations are found, cases will be referred to the Electoral Court," he said.
Moepya added the ANC has been complaining that those being killed are their candidates.
"The ANC, for example, has been complaining that the people being killed are their candidates and there is a process in law that can come to a determination. The only thing we are asking is let that process unfold."