Political parties from across the spectrum to discuss electoral issues with the IEC (3 April 2008) - statement issued by Mr Bantu Holomisa in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Multi-Pary Secretariat

The public will recall that the IEC hosted a Conference in October under the theme "Reflection on the State of Electoral Democracy in South Africa".

The main themes of that conference were:
. Theories, concepts, democratic practices of electoral systems
. Floor-crossing
. The independence of the IEC
. Party funding
. The role of the media
. Inter- and intra party democracy

At this conference the majority of political parties agreed to meet separately in order to follow-up on these issues since the conference was not mandated to make or pursue resolutions for electoral reform. Several follow-up meetings were held by the political parties and a Multi-Party Secretariat has been formed to manage the process.

Today the Multi-Party Secretariat, chaired by myself, met to prepare for our presentation to the IEC of the fruits of our discussions. On Monday - at 10am, at the IEC Head Office in Pretoria - we will be meeting with the IEC Chairperson, Dr Brigalia Bam and her Commissioners to update them on our discussions for the promotion and development of electoral democracy in South Africa.

Enquiries:
Mr Bantu Holomisa, MP
Chairperson: Multi-Party Secretariat
082 - 552 4156