One South Africa Movement (“OSA”), OUTA, the Center for Civic and Democracy Education, Project Youth South Africa, the FW de Klerk Foundation, the Independent Candidate Association South Africa (“ICA”), SoWeVote, Project Vote SA, and South African Youth Affairs note that last night’s State of the Nation Address contained no commitments to reform South Africa’s electoral system and call for a transparent, inclusive, time‑bound process to deliver changes well before the 2029 elections.

“South Africans want a system where politicians answer to them first. Reforms that put voter accountability ahead of party patronage are urgently needed, are non‑ partisan, and are a constitutional duty that strengthens Parliament’s hand against corruption,” the organisations said.

The Constitution requires “accountability, responsiveness and openness”. Civil society has consistently called for electoral reform to improve accountability; level the field between parties and independents; enhance transparency; and protect the value of each vote.

The Electoral Amendment Act, 2023 established the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel to advise on post‑2024 reform options and requires the Minister of Home Affairs to table a single report to Parliament for consideration. That report remains untabled, and SONA omission deepens concern that reform will not be delivered in time for 2029.

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

Issued by:

One South Africa Movement (NPC)
OUTA
Center for Civic and Democracy Education
Project Youth South Africa
FW de Klerk Foundation
Independent Candidate Association South Africa (NPC)
SoWeVote
Project Vote SA
South African Youth Affairs