The Deaf community say that politicians should be transparent. Picture: IEC.
A Deaf activist in the East Rand has urged political parties to be transparent in their communication with the Deaf community.
Today many South Africans head to the polls to cast their votes and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) said the elections are running smooth and steady.
Cebisile Ndebele who holds multiple positions in different organisations said transparency and honesty are essential in politics. Ndebele is a board member of the Neema Foundation and of the Pan South African Language Board’s National Language Body for South African Sign Language.
“Political parties have a responsibility to be transparent and forthright in their communication with the public. Misleading tactics can erode trust in the political process and undermine the credibility of parties and candidates,” she said.
Ndebele said critical thinking and fact-checking are important.
She said accountability is key therefore political parties should be held accountable for the information they disseminate and the promises they make.
“It is important for parties to deliver on their commitments and to be held responsible for any misleading or false statements they put forward. While it is unfortunate that some political parties may resort to misleading tactics to sway public opinion, it is important for voters to remain vigilant, informed, and engaged in the political process. By upholding principles of transparency, honesty, accountability, critical thinking, and education, we can work toward a more informed and democratic society.
Ndebele voted today. When asked who she voted for she laughed and said, “it’s a secret.”
