Ramaphosa Appoints New IEC Commissioners, Names Moepya as Chairperson

The appointments come ahead of the 2026 municipal elections and follow a thorough selection process led by the National Assembly.

In a key move to strengthen South Africa’s electoral governance, President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the appointment of three commissioners to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), the body tasked with ensuring free and fair elections in the country. The appointments come ahead of the 2026 municipal elections and follow a thorough selection process led by the National Assembly.

Details of the Appointments

The new commissioners, appointed in accordance with Section 6 of the Electoral Commission Act, are:

• Mrs. Joyce Pitso – Appointed as a full-time commissioner of the IEC. She brings a strong background in governance and public administration and is expected to play a vital role in strengthening institutional continuity.

• Judge Dhaya Pillay – Appointed as a part-time commissioner. Judge Pillay is a retired judge of the High Court and a respected legal mind known for her work in human rights and constitutional law.

• Mr. Mosotho Moepya – Appointed as a full-time commissioner and simultaneously designated by the President under Section 8(1) of the Act as the Chairperson of the Commission. Moepya is not new to the institution—he previously served as the Chief Electoral Officer and later as a commissioner. His elevation to Chairperson reflects his deep experience in managing electoral systems and institutional reform.

All three appointees will serve a seven-year term, a significant tenure that ensures consistency and allows them to contribute meaningfully to electoral reforms, policy decisions, and the strategic direction of the IEC.

Significance of the IEC Appointments

The IEC plays a critical constitutional role in South Africa’s democracy, overseeing elections at national, provincial, and municipal levels. The new appointments come at a crucial time, as the commission is expected to:

• Oversee the upcoming 2026 local government elections, including preparations, voter registration, and electoral dispute resolution.

• Implement aspects of the Electoral Amendment Act, which allows for independent candidates to contest provincial and national elections—a key reform in South Africa’s electoral system.

• Strengthen public confidence in electoral processes amidst increasing scrutiny and political contestation.

• Safeguard the credibility of South Africa’s democracy by improving transparency, efficiency, and public engagement in elections.

Presidency’s Message

In a statement issued by the Presidency, President Ramaphosa extended his best wishes to the newly appointed commissioners. He emphasized the importance of their role in “safeguarding the integrity of diverse elections in the country.” The President noted that the appointments were based on merit and the recommendations of the National Assembly, following due parliamentary process.

Background on the Commissioners

• Mosotho Moepya has over two decades of experience with the IEC. He is known for his calm leadership and deep institutional knowledge. His designation as Chairperson comes as no surprise to many observers familiar with electoral administration in South Africa.

• Judge Dhaya Pillay is a respected jurist with a distinguished judicial career. Her insights into administrative and electoral justice are expected to enrich the Commission’s deliberations.

• Joyce Pitso, while less publicly known, has served in various senior government roles and is expected to contribute a strong management and compliance focus.

Looking Ahead

With these appointments, the IEC’s leadership is now well positioned to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving political landscape. Issues such as voter apathy, misinformation, political violence, and complex legal reforms will require astute oversight. The incoming commissioners are expected to help strengthen the Commission’s operational independence, technological readiness, and legal integrity.

As South Africa prepares for its next round of elections, the newly appointed commissioners—guided by Moepya’s leadership—carry the responsibility of maintaining one of Africa’s most respected electoral institutions.