Critically discuss the role of the independent electoral commission in supporting and strengthening constitutional democracy in south africa?

Question: Critically discuss the role of the independent electoral commission in supporting and strengthening constitutional democracy in south africa?

The role of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in South Africa is to promote and safeguard democracy by conducting free and fair elections. The IEC is established by the Constitution as an independent organisation that is publicly funded and accountable to parliament, but not controlled by the government. The IEC has the following functions:

- To manage the elections of the National Assembly, provincial legislatures and municipal councils, as well as referendums.

- To ensure that every citizen who is eligible to vote has the opportunity to do so, and that every vote is counted and declared accurately.

- To compile and maintain a national common voters' roll, and to register political parties and candidates who wish to contest elections.

- To educate voters and the public about electoral matters, and to promote voter participation and civic awareness.

- To monitor compliance with the electoral laws and regulations, and to deal with electoral disputes and complaints.

- To cooperate with other electoral bodies and stakeholders, both nationally and internationally, to share best practices and enhance electoral democracy.

By performing these functions, the IEC supports and strengthens constitutional democracy in South Africa, as it ensures that the people's will is expressed through regular, peaceful and credible elections.