IEC proposes new rules to combat election disinformation

This code, part of the Electoral Code of Conduct on Measures to Address Disinformation in Local Government Elections, requires political parties and candidates to acknowledge the importance of information integrity and trustworthy media. They must also recognize the harm disinformation poses to free and fair elections and take steps to counter it. The proposals are open for public comment until July 21.

Once finalized, parties and candidates will be required to sign the code. Breaches of the code, which applies to all election-related communications, paid and unpaid content, and campaign activities, could lead to sanctions under the Electoral Act. The rules mandate parties and candidates to refrain from deliberate manipulation of the public, including through digital technologies like artificial intelligence and inauthentic online behavior.

They are also required to publicly retract and correct any disinformation disseminated by them or on their behalf and to censure those responsible. The code encourages transparency, requiring parties to proactively disclose key information relevant to the elections or electorate. The Government Gazette states that parties and candidates undertake not to use or encourage technologies that amplify disinformation or manipulate political discourse, including falsified data or targeted false