Two of South Africa’s major opposition parties — the MK Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) — have strongly objected to the reappointment of two current Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) commissioners.
They argue that the process overlooked other qualified candidates and failed to bring new leadership into the institution.
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On Tuesday, the National Assembly approved the nominations of Mosotho Moepya, the current IEC chairperson, Judge Dhaya Pillay, a sitting commissioner, and Joyce Pitso, a newcomer, for recommendation to the president.
While most parties did not vote against the nominations, several expressed dissatisfaction with the selection process, particularly over the decision to retain the same leadership rather than introducing fresh perspectives.
Opposition Parties Slam IEC Reappointments
Both the MK Party and the EFF reiterated their claims that votes were stolen from their parties during the 2024 national elections, arguing that retaining the same commissioners raises concerns about transparency and fairness.
EFF MP Thapelo Mogale said the selection panel itself had noted that the two incumbent commissioners had not performed impressively during the interviews.
“The panel was clear that these two candidates would not offer any meaningful solutions to address the growing voter apathy and the high number of unregistered, eligible voters,” Mogale stated.
ActionSA’s Malebo Kobe echoed these concerns, saying her party did not back the return of Moepya, stressing that the commission needed younger and more dynamic leadership.
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Concerns Over Transparency and Vetting
African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) leader Kenneth Meshoe raised questions about whether Parliament had adequately vetted the nominees for impartiality.
“There’s been real concern that Parliament hasn’t done enough to check political ties or past conduct. The process felt rushed and public input has not been properly considered,” Meshoe said.
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The United Democratic Movement (UDM), represented by Thandi Nontenja, also rejected the “recycling” of commissioners, choosing to abstain from voting altogether.
Despite the criticism, the approved nominations will now be forwarded to the president, who is expected to make the final appointments in the coming weeks.
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