ActionSA is deeply concerned by the recent incidents of vandalism and theft of our election posters in various areas of the Johannesburg Region. These acts of lawlessness not only violate the Electoral Act but also undermine the principles of democracy and fair campaigning.
It has come to our attention that some informal businesses have used our election posters on street poles for their advertising purposes, disregarding the outdoor by-laws that govern such advertisements. This is unacceptable and demonstrates a lack of respect for the rule of law and the democratic process.
ActionSA firmly believes in the rule of law and the importance of adhering to local government laws. As such, we have resolved to open criminal cases against the suspects and perpetrators of these crimes. We urge the authorities to take swift action to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The Electoral Act contains an Electoral Code of Conduct that is aimed at promoting conditions conducive to free and fair elections. Destroying, removing, or defacing posters of other parties is a criminal offence that can result in fines or imprisonment for up to 10 years. Political parties that breach the Code can face severe penalties, including fines, the forfeiture of election deposits, and even the cancellation of party registration.
We also remind businesses that the Outdoor Advertising By-law for the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality must be adhered to when advertising. Using election posters for commercial purposes without permission is not only illegal but also undermines the integrity of the electoral process and the laws of the City.
ActionSA believes that no country can flourish, and no economy can grow without the rule of law. Without it, chaos ensues, eroding the social fabric and hindering economic development.
ActionSA remains committed to upholding the principles of democracy and fair campaigning. We call on all parties and stakeholders to respect the rule of law and ensure that the upcoming elections on May 29, 2024, are free, fair, and transparent.
ActionSA Joburg Region Condemns Vandalism and Theft of Election Posters
ActionSA is deeply concerned by the recent incidents of vandalism and theft of our election posters in various areas of the Johannesburg Region. These acts of lawlessness not only violate the Electoral Act but also undermine the principles of democracy and fair campaigning.
It has come to our attention that some informal businesses have used our election posters on street poles for their advertising purposes, disregarding the outdoor by-laws that govern such advertisements. This is unacceptable and demonstrates a lack of respect for the rule of law and the democratic process.
ActionSA firmly believes in the rule of law and the importance of adhering to local government laws. As such, we have resolved to open criminal cases against the suspects and perpetrators of these crimes. We urge the authorities to take swift action to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The Electoral Act contains an Electoral Code of Conduct that is aimed at promoting conditions conducive to free and fair elections. Destroying, removing, or defacing posters of other parties is a criminal offence that can result in fines or imprisonment for up to 10 years. Political parties that breach the Code can face severe penalties, including fines, the forfeiture of election deposits, and even the cancellation of party registration.
We also remind businesses that the Outdoor Advertising By-law for the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality must be adhered to when advertising. Using election posters for commercial purposes without permission is not only illegal but also undermines the integrity of the electoral process and the laws of the City.
ActionSA believes that no country can flourish, and no economy can grow without the rule of law. Without it, chaos ensues, eroding the social fabric and hindering economic development.
ActionSA remains committed to upholding the principles of democracy and fair campaigning. We call on all parties and stakeholders to respect the rule of law and ensure that the upcoming elections on May 29, 2024, are free, fair, and transparent.