The IEC says the requirement is to ensure the integrity of the ballot paper and not to restrict participation.

The IEC has published a number of draft regulations in support of the recently promulgated Electoral Amendment Act which for the first time provides for independent candidates to stand in national and provincial elections.

The Commission proposes that an independent candidate pay a deposit of $1 070 to contest nationally, $802 for a provincial seat and $1 070 for every additional regional seat.

The IEC says the deposit requirement is necessary to deter frivolous or vexatious independent candidates from entering the race. It also says the deposit will help to ensure that independent candidates are serious about their campaigns and have the resources to mount a credible challenge.

Some critics have argued that the deposit requirement is too high and will make it difficult for independent candidates to participate in the elections. However, the IEC says the deposit is in line with international standards and is necessary to protect the integrity of the electoral process.

The IEC will be accepting public comment on the draft regulations until August 12, 2023.

The final regulations will be published in the Government Gazette in September 2023.

The 2024 general elections are scheduled to take place on October 27, 2024.

--SABC--