By ‘Majirata Latela
New Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) chairman Mphasa Mokhochane and two commissioners – Karabo Mokobocho and Tšoeu Petlane – were sworn into office by Chief Justice Sakoane Sakoane yesterday.
Speaking to the media just after the swearing, Mokhochane as the new faces of the IEC, they do not know the goings-on in the institution but they come with ideas, even though such ideas may not necessarily match what IEC needs.
“However, our primary role is that of conducting free and fair elections which will be accepted by all. The question that comes up is how are we are going to do that and that brings in the roles of departments in the IEC, which will help us make sure we deliver elections that are free and fair.
“We have heard of the minor tiffs within the IEC, but what we are going to do is to make sure we elect a director of elections to help resolve the situation. That is one of the many tasks we are looking at,” he said.
Mokhochane further stated that they are also determined to uphold the good image of the IEC, adding that that need to win over the confidence of the electorate, which is vital for free and fair elections.
He concluded that he himself has full confidence in the IEC staff, having worked with them before as director of elections. This, he said, will be critical as they all knuckle down to prepare for the 2022 polls.
