The Electoral Court has fined several political parties, including the ANC, for failing to provide audited financial statements to the Electoral Commission of South Africa. The parties were ordered to pay administrative penalties ranging from R10,000 to R40,000.
The court criticized the parties for not opposing the case or explaining their failure to comply with the Political Parties Funding Act. The ANC, African Transformation Movement, Cope, National Freedom Party, African Independent Congress, and PAC were among those fined.
Judge Lebogang Modiba emphasized the importance of meeting statutory obligations and ensuring transparency in party funding. The court highlighted that all registered parties, regardless of representation in legislatures, must comply with financial disclosure requirements.
Non-compliance by parties receiving funding under the act was deemed aggravating. The Electoral Court imposed fines based on the parties’ resources and failure to provide valid reasons for non-compliance.
While some parties argued financial challenges as a reason for non-compliance, the court upheld the fines, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to the law. The court ordered each party to cover their own costs.