Political parties urged to comply with COVID-19 protocols ahead of elections

President Cyril Ramaphosa is calling on politicians to adhere to COVID-19 protocols when campaigning for the local government elections.

South Africans go to the polls on 1 November.

Ramaphosa is urging political leaders to help curb the spread of the coronavirus.

“In exactly 50 days’ time, South Africans will go to the polls in the local government elections, it is vital that as we undertake this great democratic exercise, we do everything within our means to prevent a resurgence of Covid-19 infections,” he said.

“At the same time, we need to ensure that the pandemic does not limit the ability of all South Africans to freely exercise their democratic right to elect their local councillors.”

Meanwhile, The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) says although it’s been pushing for a postponement because of COVID-19 concerns, it’s ready for the polls.