In the run-up to the pivotal South African 2024 elections, ACCORD through its “In Our Backyard” initiative conducted a series of online election conflict prevention training aimed at capacitating local peacebuilders with the tools and knowledge necessary to prevent and mitigate elections-related conflicts.
Kicking off the initiative with a powerful start, the first session zeroed in on promoting gender equality in electoral processes. The trainer, Ms. Joyce Titi Pitso discussed the critical need for inclusive elections with the participants, addressing violence against women during elections. One of the participants, Ms. Ntombenhle Rulumeni, Executive Director at Social Justice Women highlighted that her organisation had taken an active role in empowering other women and girls to actively participate in elections. The discussions also highlighted the persistent barriers that women face, such as traditional gender roles, discriminatory stereotypes, and lack of support from political parties. “We must dismantle these barriers to achieve true gender equality in our politics”, participant Ms. Ditlhare Mokhema from Camp Sizanani Life Skills.
The second and third sessions took a deep dive into the mechanics of free and fair elections, with a spotlight on the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). An exchange of views unfolded about the legislative framework for elections, the necessity for independent candidates, and the critical independence of the IEC from Parliament. Key topics included civic education, and ensuring the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. One participant noted, “Voter education is not just about casting a vote; it’s about making an informed choice,”. During the discussions with Ms. Pitso, participants called for an increase in conflict resolution representatives during the pre-election period, stressing the importance of fundamental freedoms such as movement and speech.
The fourth and final sessions wrapped up the pre-election-related training series with a look at the voting system and quota allocation in South African elections. The discussion also ventured into the triggers of conflict during elections, including the political environment, social media, and traditional leadership disputes. The trainer further discussed conflict management strategies for peaceful elections and the transparency of election results.
The fifth session focused on the media’s crucial role in South African elections. The trainer provided an in-depth look at the regulations and advertising guidelines for political parties. Highlighting its commitment to maintaining fair elections, the Electoral Commission of South Africa has developed comprehensive guidelines for social media use. Concerns about election violence were also addressed, with one of the participants, Ms. Aphile-amanzima Mazibuko from She Leads, noting the lack of news coverage on such incidents. As most of the participants were election observers, the session delved into election observer guidelines for impartiality and neutrality prompting a rich discussion on how the participants could effectively take on their role as observers.
The session concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing their sincere appreciation to both ACCORD and Ms. Pitso for the insightful and informative sessions. The participants departed feeling enlightened, one participant thanked Ms. Pitso for the sessions as she expressed a newfound ability to contextualise and apply the knowledge gained.
