IEC launches investigation after alleged candidates list leak
The IEC has launched a probe after an employee leaked a list of the ANC’s candidates list. Lists from opposition parties are also circulating.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has launched an internal investigation after a supposed ANC candidates list was leaked.
Candidates lists of the Jacob Zuma-backed uMkhonto weSizwe Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) also circulating on social media.
IEC LAUNCHES INTERNAL PROBE AFTER CANDIDATES LISTS WERE LEAKED
As per the IEC, before an election, registered parties that want to contest the election must submit lists of their candidates.
Lists that comply with the legislation are made available to the public for inspection. At this point, anyone can object to a candidate by submitting a written objection to the IEC. Once objections and appeals have been processed, the final candidate lists are published.
NEWS: The ANC's candidate list is finally out. It is made up of seasoned MPs and new comers. The list of 200 has the likes of Paul Mashatile, Gwede Mantashe, Malusi Gigaba, Khusela Sangoni (Diko), and Mdumiseni Ntuli. pic.twitter.com/CeaNUN3WA5
— Sihle Mavuso (@ZANewsFlash) March 8, 2024
NEWS: The MK Party's parliamentary list is finally out as well. Former President Jacob Zuma is topping the list of 200 candidates, and he is followed by Jabulani Khumalo, the founder of the ANC's splinter party. The list also includes Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, ANC's Des Van Royeen,… pic.twitter.com/peTsaz5uo4
— Sihle Mavuso (@ZANewsFlash) March 9, 2024
In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, IEC Deputy Chief Masego Shiburi said they have launched an internal inquiry as the list was released prematurely.
Shiburi said they have reported the candidates list to the Information Regulator.
“We have instituted an inquiry to try and establish the source of the distribution of the candidates list as the IEC takes a very dim view of the circulation of personal information,” Bushiri added.
[BREAKING] IEC confirms internal leak: Deputy Chief at the IEC Masego Shiburi says the leaking of ANC candidates list was from one of its employees, he says the matter is regrettable and an internal inquiry has since been instituted.
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) March 9, 2024
Watch: https://t.co/PG3flcLoy9 pic.twitter.com/MFW2pomBAO
ANC WEIGHS IN ON LEAKED LIST
The ANC said it successfully submitted its candidate list for the 2024 Provincial and National Elections on Friday, 8 March.
Following the leak, the ruling said it has conveyed its concerns to the IEC about the unauthorised release of personal information in potential of the contravention of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
“The ANC supports the IEC in any efforts it may pursue to investigate the unauthorised release and hold anyone responsible to account.
“We reiterate that the ANC has and will continue to speak for itself throughout this process on the nature and constitution of the ANC’s candidate list,” ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said.