IIG News

Championing Resilience and Democracy in South Africa

With all the past six elections, there has never been so much interest in a South African election as we have seen here at home and abroad this year. The interest has sparked many conversations, with many being largely positive, while some are negative.

 

Since our first elections on that memorable day of 27 April 1994, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has run our elections with absolute integrity. It has set the bar so high – making it amongst the best in the world. As we approach the anticipated elections on 29 May 2024, we are encouraged by the IEC’s unwavering commitment to transparent, free, and fair elections, and earning the trust of South Africans and the world.

 

Our constitutional democracy remains solid, largely due to institutions such as the IEC, the Judiciary, and other Chapter 9 institutions. The IEC has ensured that SA’s reputation remains intact and is not sullied by doubts about how it conducts the elections. Sadly, we have noted that some political actors are trying to cast aspersions on the IEC’s hard-earned credibility. We are confident, as Sasria, that the IEC executes its constitutional mandate with excellence.

 

A lot has been said about the possibility of violence in these elections and comparisons have been made to July 2021, where protests caused a loss of more than 330 lives, and damages to property leading to economic losses of R50 billion. Sasria is confident in the response of the intelligence and law enforcement agencies to safeguard this election, ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for citizens. They have taken the necessary measures to ensure that the rule of law will be observed throughout the election period and that violence instigators are arrested. It is highly unlikely that we will see violence as we experienced in 2021.

 

Despite its many challenges, SA continues to remain a robust democratic nation, continuing to prove pessimists wrong. We are a nation with a never-ending ability to demonstrate resilience, even when faced with the most crippling adversity.

 

It’s been three years since the July 2021 riots, and Sasria has not only recovered but has significantly improved, its financial health and a robust capacity to manage risks. We are more equipped than ever to support our clients, ensuring that the companies will be able to meet their claims should violence occur.

 

Our enduring commitment to safeguarding our clients’ interests means we are always prepared to meet our obligations. With a proud 45-year legacy, we stand firm in our mission to provide reliable coverage and speedy claims resolution.

 

We are confident a peaceful election will occur. We are aware that some of the intractable challenges that face the country need to be addressed. We are a formidable and winning force when we are united in our diversity.

 

Sasria calls on every South African to exercise their right to cast their vote in a peaceful manner. Let’s respect our Constitution, honour our rights, and collaborate with law enforcement to ensure a peaceful process. Immediately after the elections, let us pull together to take this beautiful Republic forward. Even when we disagree and have fierce debates, those moments should be used to build creative solutions to our challenges.

 

Nkosi sikelela iAfrika

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