The South African Civil Society Election Coalition (SACSEC), formerly known as the South African Civil Society Observation Coalition (SACSOC), has reconvened in preparation for the 2009 national and provincial elections.

SACSEC is a national initiative of over 40 non-governmental and faith-based organisations committed to the conduct of free, fair and credible elections. Since 1995, the Coalition has trained and deployed over 5000 domestic observers for national, provincial and local government elections. SACSEC plans to have at least 2000 observers available to observe all facets of the 2009 elections, including the registration and nomination processes in the pre-election period. SACSEC observers will also be present at polling and counting stations during the elections.

The South African Council of Churches (SACC) has been mandated by SACSEC members to co-ordinate the Coalition's activities at the national level. SACSEC will have offices in all nine provinces co-ordinated by provincial SACC offices and other partner organisations, such as the South African Catholic Bishops Conference (SACBC), the KwaZulu Natal Democracy and Election Forum and the Electoral Institute of Southern Africa (EISA).

Although South Africa has held successful elections on several occasions and stakeholders – including political parties and civil society organisations – have demonstrated their ability to peacefully participate in and monitor elections, the 2009 general election will take place in the context of significant change within political parties. Given that elections involve a contest for power, election observers play an essential role in ensuring that the environment is conducive to free, fair and credible elections.

SACSEC observation methodology is underpinned by the Principles for Election Management, Monitoring and Observation (PEMMO) developed by the Electoral Commissions Forum of SADC countries (ECF) and EISA and jointly agreed to between Electoral Management Bodies and civil society organisations in November 2003. The PEMMO provides an important yardstick by which to assess the democratic electoral process.

SACSEC has broadened its original objectives to include voter education. This is a reflection of its belief that an active, well-informed citizenry is vital to a successful and legitimate election. As a result, SACSEC partner organisations will also work closely with stakeholders in conducting voter education countrywide.

SACSEC welcomes the participation of civil society and faith based organisations.

For further information please contact: The Revd Canon Luke Pato at 083 357 3961