Earlier this week the IEC provided media with an update on the election preparations in the province, with the Electorate’s Provincial Manager in the province, Itumeleng Liba, confirming that of the 28 parties contending the elections in the province, 11 are new. Liba added that the IEC has not received objections to any Free State party list, but they did receive a complaint regarding the disruption of a party event, by an opposing political party in Section F, in Botshabelo nearly two weeks ago. He says the matter was received and noted to the satisfaction of the complainant. Free State police are investigating allegations of assault and fighting between members of opposing political parties in Botshabelo outside Bloemfontein ahead of the national elections in May.

Jones Qhobosheane confirmed at a media briefing by provincial management at the Metpol Building on April 8, that they are investigating the instances reported. He, however, refrained from shedding light on any specific details, like which political parties were involved and on what date the alleged fights occurred. IEC Project Manager in the province, Teboho Nathane, stresses that the parties are bound to the code of conduct as it is the law. “The contravention of the code can be prosecuted,” warns the manager. Nathane encourages members of the public to approach local police within the election year, should they see anyone committing election-related offences.

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