IEC warns parties not to use its name, logo or branding in campaigns

The Electoral Commission (IEC) has warned political parties, prospective candidates and their supporters not to use the Commission’s name, logo or other branding in election campaign material ahead of the 4 November 2026 Local Government Elections.

What the IEC says is prohibited

In a statement, the Commission said the practice is unlawful and risks misleading voters by creating the impression that the IEC endorses or supports a particular party or candidate. It said it had noted with concern instances of its branding and identifiers being used in campaign material.

The IEC cited Section 21A of the Electoral Commission Act, which it said prohibits use of the names “Electoral Commission”, “Independent Electoral Commission” and “IEC”, the IEC logo and other Commission-owned material in political parties’ or candidates’ election campaign activities.

The Commission also said the law bars the use of any identifier associated with the IEC in connection with any trade, business, profession or occupation.

Why the restriction exists

The IEC said the provisions are intended to protect its independence, integrity and impartiality and to prevent any misrepresentation of its role in the electoral process.

“The purpose of these provisions is to protect the independence, integrity, and impartiality of the Electoral Commission and to prevent any misrepresentation of its role in the electoral process,”

The Commission warned that use of its name, logo or branding in campaign material “may create the false impression that a particular party or candidate enjoys the endorsement, support, or approval of the Electoral Commission.”

It added that such conduct “has the potential to mislead voters and to undermine public confidence in one of the Commission’s core values: impartiality.”

Enforcement and voter reminders

The IEC said it will monitor compliance and reserves the right to take any appropriate legal or regulatory steps where violations are identified.

The Commission also urged eligible South Africans to register to vote or update their registration details during the voter registration weekend on 20 and 21 June 2026. It said registration can also be completed through its online voter registration portal, and that voters can verify details by sending their identity number to the SMS line 32810.

Call to campaign responsibly

The IEC called on political parties, independent candidates, campaign managers and supporters to immediately stop unauthorised use of the Commission’s intellectual property and to ensure that all campaign material complies with the Electoral Act.