South Africa's IEC gazettes disinformation code for 2026 elections

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has officially gazetted a new code of conduct designed to combat disinformation ahead of the local government elections scheduled for 4 November 2026. Known as the Disinformation Code, the measure was promulgated on 4 September to strengthen election integrity and ensure free, fair, and orderly voting processes.

The code applies to political parties, candidates, and any individuals acting under their instruction or for reward. It covers all election-related communication, whether online, offline, paid, or unpaid. Under these regulations, parties and candidates are required to verify information accuracy before sharing and must publicly retract or correct any false or misleading information within 36 hours of discovery.

While the code aims to curb deceptive practices, the IEC stated it is designed to protect lawful criticism, opinion, commentary, fair reporting, satire, and legitimate democratic debate. The Disinformation Code was published in accordance with Section 88(a) of the Local Government: Municipal Electoral Act 27 of 2000, meaning violations are subject to the same sanctions as breaches of the standard Electoral Code of Conduct.