JOHANNESBURG - The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has warned political parties that campaigning within the boundaries of voting stations is strictly prohibited.
The warning comes as voting stations across the country open. The Commission has reminded political parties and their supporters to respect the rules governing political activity on Election Day.
Briefing the media on Wednesday, IEC chairperson Mosotho Moepya said the only political activity permitted within the boundaries of voting stations is the casting of ballots.
Prohibited activities include displaying or distributing political billboards, posters, placards and pamphlets, as well as attempting to influence or persuade voters to support or reject a particular political party or candidate.
Certain forms of political activity such as political meetings, marches, rallies, demonstrations or other political events are prohibited outside the boundaries of voting stations.
Moepya explained that presiding officers will establish the boundaries of the voting station in consultation with party agents.
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He said political activity may continue outside the demarcated boundaries of voting stations, provided it complies with the law.
The Commission says these provisions are intended to protect voters' right to freely exercise their democratic choice while allowing low-key political campaigning to continue without organised public events.
Anyone found contravening the applicable legal provisions will be guilty of an offence and, upon conviction, may face a fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years.