Political parties cautioned: Don’t use IEC branding illegally

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The Electoral Commission has expressed concern regarding the misuse of its name, logo, designs, and other intellectual property by political parties, potential candidates, and their supporters.

This issue has surfaced in the context of election campaign material related to the forthcoming local government elections scheduled for 4 November 2026.

The Electoral Commission emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of its branding and intellectual property during the electoral process.

In a statement on Monday, the commission reminds all political parties, independent candidates, campaign teams and supporters that such conduct is unlawful and constitutes a contravention of the Electoral Act.

“Section 21A of the Electoral Commission Act expressly prohibits any person from using, the names ‘Electoral Commission,’ ‘Independent Electoral Commission,’ and ‘IEC.’

“Logo of the IEC, design, mark or other material owned by the Electoral Commission for purposes connected with a political party or candidate’s election campaign activities.

“Any identifier associated with the electoral commission in connection with any trade, business, profession or occupation. The purpose of these provisions is to protect the independence, integrity and impartiality of the Electoral Commission and to prevent any misrepresentation of its role in the electoral process.

“The commission is constitutionally mandated to manage elections and ensure that they are free and fair. It does not endorse, support or campaign for any political party, independent candidate or political interest.

“The use of the commission’s name, logo or branding in campaign material may create the false impression that a particular
party or candidate enjoys the endorsement, support or approval of the Electoral Commission,” David Mandaha, the commission’s deputy head of communication, explained.

Stern warning to political parties

He further highlighted that such conduct has the potential to mislead voters and to undermine public confidence in one of the Commission’s core values: impartiality.

Mandaha urged all political entities—including political parties, independent candidates, campaign managers, and their supporters—to immediately stop unauthorized usage of the commission’s intellectual property.

He emphasized the necessity for all campaign materials to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act.

Mandaha continued, “As the country prepares for the LGE, we call on all electoral stakeholders to conduct their campaigns lawfully. This approach is intended to bolster public trust in democratic institutions and foster an environment that supports free and fair elections.

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“The commission also reassures that it will actively monitor compliance with these regulations and maintain the authority to pursue appropriate legal or regulatory actions should any violations come to light.”

Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission further encourages all eligible South Africans to take the first step towards participation by going to their voting stations to register to vote or ensure that their registration details are up to date on June 20 and 21, 2026.

Registration can also be completed anytime, anywhere through the Commission’s online voter registration portal.

All voters are encouraged to check their details by sending an ID number to the following SMS line, 32810.