ActionSA, a newly formed political party, has filed a complaint with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) against senior representatives of the Democratic Alliance (DA) over alleged additional payments made to them.
The complaint, which was submitted on Monday, alleges that certain DA representatives received additional payments from the party’s parliamentary leader, John Steenhuisen, and the party’s chief whip, Natasha Mazzone, in addition to their salaries as Members of Parliament (MPs).
According to ActionSA leader, Herman Mashaba, this is a clear violation of the Electoral Code of Conduct, which prohibits political parties from offering financial incentives to candidates in order to secure their candidacy.
Mashaba stated, “It is concerning that the DA, a party that prides itself on good governance and accountability, would engage in such unethical practices. This is a blatant attempt to buy the loyalty of their candidates and goes against the principles of fair and free elections.”
The complaint specifically names DA MPs, Geordin Hill-Lewis, and Ghaleb Cachalia, who have both confirmed receiving additional payments from Steenhuisen and Mazzone. Hill-Lewis, who is also the party’s spokesperson, admitted to receiving a “top-up” payment of R50,000 from Steenhuisen, while Cachalia confirmed receiving a similar amount from Mazzone.
In response to the allegations, the DA has denied any wrongdoing and has accused ActionSA of using the complaint as a political ploy to discredit the party ahead of the upcoming local government elections.
However, Mashaba has dismissed these claims, stating that the complaint was made in the interest of upholding the integrity of the electoral process. He also called on the IEC to investigate the matter thoroughly and take appropriate action if the allegations are found to be true.
The IEC has confirmed that they have received the complaint and will be investigating the matter. They have also urged all political parties to adhere to the Electoral Code of Conduct and to conduct their campaigns in a fair and transparent manner.
This latest development has caused a stir in the political landscape, with many questioning the ethical standards of the DA and its leadership. It also raises concerns about the use of financial incentives in politics and the potential impact on the democratic process.
In light of this, Mashaba has called for a change in the political culture and for parties to focus on policies and ideas rather than resorting to underhanded tactics to gain support.
He stated, “We need to move away from the politics of patronage and start focusing on the issues that matter to the people. ActionSA is committed to bringing about real change and we will not engage in these types of unethical practices.”
The DA, on the other hand, has maintained its stance and has accused ActionSA of being a “one-man show” and lacking credibility.
The outcome of the IEC’s investigation will be closely watched by all parties involved and will have significant implications for the upcoming elections. It is crucial that the integrity of the electoral process is upheld and that any wrongdoing is addressed accordingly.
In the meantime, it is important for all political parties to conduct themselves in a manner that is in line with the principles of democracy and to refrain from engaging in any form of corruption or unethical behavior.
As citizens, it is our responsibility to hold our leaders accountable and to demand transparency and integrity in our political system. Let us use our voices and our votes to bring about positive change and create a better future for all.
