Trade union federation SAFTU says the Electoral Law Amendment Act, which allows independent candidates to participate in national and local elections, is a sign that the country's democracy is maturing.
Under this law, independent candidates are now able to compete for seats in parliament and local councils for the first time.
SAFTU says people need to be clear about who they want to vote for in next month's elections.
Spokesman Trevor Schaak said Labor was responsible for ensuring that voters were well-educated.
“As the South African Trade Union Confederation, we would like to reassure workers that this special dynamic and the new changes in Parliament have created a number of options for independent candidates to stand. I have to advise you to be aware that you don't necessarily have to vote for just anyone. However, you should look at the class projects of people doing it. In a running party class project. ”
Video | Parliament passes electoral amendment bill: Muhangeri Matomela
Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission (IEC) says that in addition to dealing with election year budget cuts, it is also incurring additional costs from the Electoral Amendment Act.
IEC officials attended a parliamentary committee on home affairs and discussed matters such as the budget and the schedule for the 2024 general election.
The commission's chief financial officer, Dawn Mbatha, said the election was taking into account the R281-million budget cuts and the financial implications of the Electoral Amendment Act, including the introduction of a third ballot paper. Ta.
Mbatha said, “The anticipated longer ballot period will have financial implications, and the impact of the longer ballot period will also impact election materials such as boxes and security stickers. We also expect an increase in lawsuits.”
Video: IEC media briefing on preparations for the 2024 general elections:
