Civil society organisations and individuals urge Parliament to act without delay to finalise its consideration of the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel’s report, warning that the window to secure meaningful electoral reform before the 2029 national and provincial elections is rapidly closing.

South Africa stands at a pivotal moment. Nearly three decades into democracy, citizens remain disconnected from those elected to represent them. This weakens accountability and undermines the constitutional promise of a system in which government is accountable, responsive and open.

“Electoral reform is about whether South Africans can meaningfully hold politicians to account,” the organisations said. “It’s about empowering voters over political parties”.

Parliament now carries a clear legal and constitutional responsibility to urgently consider the report in a way that gives full effect to section 23 of the Electoral Amendment Act, 2023 and allows for meaningful reforms to be implemented ahead of the 2029 national and provincial elections.

The organisations express their increasing concern that delays will make Parliament unable to complete a credible, constitutionally sound process capable of delivering meaningful reform in time for the 2029 elections. Thus, undermining the purpose of section 23 and risking breaching Parliament’s legal obligations under the Electoral Amendment Act and the Constitution.

We, therefore, on Parliament to immediately commence a transparent, inclusive, time‑bound process to consider electoral reform and the tabling of any necessary bills on schedule that allows for demarcation and implementation ahead of 2029.

“South Africa’s electoral system regulates the relationship between citizens and their representatives. When that system does not enable meaningful accountability, it must be reformed. Electoral reform presents an opportunity to renew democracy, restore

public trust and ensure that representatives are answerable to the people they serve,” conclude the organisations.

Without immediate, decisive action by Parliament South Africa risks entering the next election cycle without reforms that are necessary to strengthen accountability and deepen democratic governance.

No reform is not an option.

For queries contact the FW de Klerk Foundation at 066 028 2720, or daniela@fwdeklerk.org.

Issued by:

Auwal Socio-economic Research Institute (ASRI NPC)

Center for Civic and Democracy Education

Dr Klaus Kotzé

FW de Klerk Foundation

Inclusive Society Institute

Independent Candidate Association South Africa (NPC)

Mr Michael Atkins

One South Africa Movement (NPC)

Project Youth South Africa

SoWeVote

Islamic Governance Advisory Committee (IGAC)