Over 50 organisations, mostly local, granted observer status by IEC

CAPE TOWN - The Electoral Commission says it’s granted observer status to 52 organisations, some international, but most of them local for the upcoming elections. 

It comes in response to questions from members of Parliament (MPs) on Tuesday regarding the Democratic Alliance’s (DA’s) request to the United States (US) and other Western nations to oversee the country’s May polls. 

The party was again slammed by African National Congress MPs in the Home Affairs portfolio committee for making such a request. 

Electoral commissioner Janet Love said more international organisations are expected to request accreditation to observe the polls closer to the election date. 

“In addition to that, not only does the Department of International Relations invite the multi-lateral institutions, but has briefings with the diplomatic corps within the country who are given guest status to also be able to have access to our processes.”