A recent biweekly report by the Centre for Analytics and Behavioural Change (CABC) has highlighted concerning trends in online activity leading up to South Africa’s upcoming by-elections. The report, covering the period from March 1st to 17th, 2024, reveals coordinated efforts by accounts on platform X (formerly Twitter) aligned with the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party pushing narratives aimed at discrediting the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) ahead of the by-elections.
According to the report, there have been allegations circulating online, including claims that President Cyril Ramaphosa has invited the United Nations and the United States to South Africa in anticipation of a civil war. Additionally, there are suggestions to use drones to track the transport of ballot boxes due to a lack of trust in the IEC. The report notes that these claims often use the term “allegedly” to mask their unsubstantiated nature, similar to tactics used by known disinformation accounts.
The upcoming election has sparked a significant amount of online conversation, with a focus on parties such as the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and the African National Congress (ANC). Analysis of online discussions revealed over 380,000 mentions between March 1st and 17th, 2024, with particular attention given to topics related to Jacob Zuma, including the closure of his accounts by FNB and his meetings with various stakeholders.
The report also highlighted the campaigning efforts of the MK party and the EFF, with hashtags like #VoteMK2024 and #VoteEFF2024 gaining traction. However, claims of a “clean” audit for the EFF in the City of Ekurhuleni were dismissed. Criticism online has been directed towards the ANC for its management of public funds, power cuts, and unemployment, with mixed responses from the online community.
A peak in conversation related to election monitoring occurred on March 11th, 2024, coinciding with a letter from the Democratic Alliance (DA) and other parties within the multi-party charter requesting international assistance for local monitoring efforts.
The report also addressed the online buzz surrounding “NomaRally,” a young South African attending manifesto launches for various political parties. While the situation has been a source of humor online, it raises questions about genuine youth engagement in political processes.
As the election approaches, misinformation and the manipulation of narratives are on the rise. An example highlighted in the report involves Julius Malema, leader of the EFF, and his commitment to Pan-African unity. Some social media accounts have twisted his message, falsely claiming he doesn’t want South Africans to vote for him. This misinformation not only discredits political parties but also fuels social tensions by exploiting pre-existing anxieties about immigration.
In conclusion, as South Africa prepares for the upcoming by-elections, it is crucial to be vigilant against misinformation and divisive narratives that can harm the democratic process and social cohesion.
