Policy analyst Nkosikhulle Nyembezi said expectations for the report and recommendations aimed at reforming the country's electoral system were justified.
The Consultative Panel on Electoral System Reform has closed the process for accepting public submissions on proposals to change the current closed election system to a constituency-based system.
The committee plans to submit its report to Secretary of the Interior Dr. Leon Shriver by the end of May 2025.
Nyumbezi says the planned revitalization of the country's electoral system will go a long way in keeping politicians on their toes.
“We have every reason to look forward to the panel's recommendations, especially as South Africans have voted to show that they no longer want one-party dominance in parliament. Another exciting issue that we hope will be reflected in the much-anticipated national dialogue is that it shows that the right to run for office belongs to individual South Africans, not just political parties. This is about political party funding, which has become very prevalent these days.
Meanwhile, Outback Tax Abuse (OUTA) says it is looking forward to next year's report.
Dr Rachel Fisher, Parliamentary Engagement and Research Manager at OUTA, said: OUTA's vision aligns with the guiding principles articulated in the Electoral Reform Consultative Panel's discussions, which emphasize inclusivity, fairness, accountability and transparency. Electoral reform is a vital opportunity to redesign South Africa's electoral system to ensure the fair participation of independent candidates. ”
