New IEC chair answers questions about his credibility
At his initial media briefing as chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission of SA, Glen Mashinini on Friday answered questions about his credibility in view of his links to President Jacob Zuma.
Mashinini told reporters that his links to Zuma were only on a professional level and he would serve the IEC without fear or favour.
“I think the important thing for us and South Africans out there to understand is that the commission is a collective. I have been designated to chair among equals,” explained Mashinini.
“The processes of our elections are elaborate that no individual can have the opportunity to act unconstitutionally without being checked in the system.
“I’m also comfortable that the appointment has come through an elaborate process that followed our constitutional prescript. All one expects is that we give this commission the opportunity to carry out it’s responsibility and ensure that we have free and fair elections. I would not wish to personalise the appointment.”
Earlier this week, Zuma appointed Mashinini as the new chairperson of the IEC.
Mashinini was deputy chief electoral officer of the IEC between 1998 and 2001. In April, Zuma appointed him as a commissioner of the electoral body. He has also served as a special advisor to the president.
The IEC has not had a chairperson since Pansy Tlakula resigned under a cloud last year. The vice chairman, Terry Tselane, has been acted chair until Mashinini was appointed.
Mashinini’s return to the IEC sparked outrage, mainly from opposition parties, questioning his links to Zuma.
On Friday, Mashinini said the perceived links were water under the bridge.
“The link to the president, that was one of my previous roles and responsibilities, professionally. That matter has been canvassed quite comprehensively during the interviews by the chief justice of the constitutional court. It was felt that I am eligible and my availability would add value to the team that has the responsibility to ensure that our democracy thrives,” he said.
“Regarding the IEC and its image, the commission is seized with preparations and ensuring that the commission restores its image. We will be going throughout the country, engaging stakeholders to ensure that everybody has an appreciation of our commitment in ensuring that we uphold what this institution symbolises.” - ANA