IEC Warns Parties Against Misusing Its Logo in Campaigns

According to the IEC, the Electoral Commission Act contains clear provisions designed to protect the institution's impartiality and public credibility.

South Africa's Electoral Commission (IEC) has issued a warning to political parties, independent candidates and their supporters over the unauthorised use of the Commission's name, logo and other intellectual property in election campaign material. In a statement released on Monday, the IEC expressed concern about instances where its branding has appeared in campaign-related content ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. The Commission stressed that such conduct is unlawful and violates provisions of the country's electoral legislation.

The IEC reminded all election participants that it is an independent constitutional institution responsible for managing elections and ensuring that they are free and fair. It does not endorse or support any political party, candidate or political interest. Officials warned that the use of the Commission's branding in campaign material could create the false impression that a particular party or candidate enjoys official approval or backing from the electoral authority.

Electoral Laws Protect Independence of the Commission

According to the IEC, the Electoral Commission Act contains clear provisions designed to protect the institution's impartiality and public credibility.

Section 21A of the Act prohibits the use of the names "Electoral Commission", "Independent Electoral Commission" and "IEC" in connection with political campaigns. The law also forbids the use of the Commission's logo, designs, marks or any other material owned by the institution for election-related activities. In addition, no person or organisation may use identifiers associated with the Commission in connection with any trade, business, profession or occupation.

The Commission said these restrictions exist to safeguard the integrity and independence of South Africa's electoral system. Any attempt to associate political campaigns with the IEC risks misleading voters and weakening confidence in democratic institutions. The electoral body has called on political parties, campaign managers, independent candidates and supporters to immediately stop using its intellectual property without authorisation and ensure that all campaign material complies with legal requirements.

IEC Encourages Voter Registration Ahead of Local Elections

The Commission confirmed that it will continue monitoring compliance and may take legal or regulatory action where violations are identified. As preparations continue for the Local Government Elections scheduled for 4 November 2026, the IEC urged all political stakeholders to conduct their campaigns responsibly and in a manner that promotes public trust, democratic participation and free and fair elections. The Commission also encouraged eligible South Africans to register as voters or update their registration details during the national voter registration weekend on 20 and 21 June 2026.

Citizens can also register online through the IEC's voter registration portal at any time. Existing voters are encouraged to verify their registration details by sending their identity number via SMS to the Commission's designated verification service. The IEC said broad public participation remains essential to strengthening democracy and ensuring that local elections accurately reflect the will of South African communities.