Political parties warned against misinformation ahead of November polls
With campaigning in full swing for the upcoming local government elections, an anti-disinformation group's warning against the spread of false information.
Political parties disseminating fake and misleading messages for political gain may incur fines of up to R200 000.
The Independent Electoral Commission's (IEC) code of conduct took effect after last week's declaration of the November polls.
The Local Government Election Anti Dis-information Project says it will be monitoring communications from all political parties in the run up to the vote.
Coordinator Phumzile van Damme says political organisations found guilty of spreading false information could have their votes or party registration cancelled.
"We will be carefully monitoring all parties communications using tech and data signs tools. We will not hesitate to report any political party leaders, or their candidates, and we hope that our initiative will serve as a deterrent and political parties and their candidates will go out there and communicate with South Africa's voters without misleading or manipulating them."
