South Africa's election body will enforce disinformation rules
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The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) will enforce a new code of conduct to counter disinformation during upcoming local government elections.
The code took effect immediately upon release, aiming to protect the fairness of the 4 November elections. Kate Bapela, IEC national spokesperson, explained the code seeks to prevent the spread of deliberate disinformation online.
The IEC established Real411, a digital platform accessible through its portal, so people can report suspected disinformation related to the election, candidates, or the commission itself. The code allows for criticism, opinion, and debate, but it requires political parties and candidates to verify information before sharing it. Parties must correct any false information they spread within 36 hours of discovering it and address those responsible.
The IEC also instructed parties to avoid deceptive practices like fake accounts and cyberbullying and to clearly label any AI-generated content or political advertising. Individuals who find disinformation online should also report it to Real411 within 36 hours.
