Report Exposes Disinformation as Weapon in South Africa’s 2024 Elections

The Campaign on Digital Ethics (CODE) has released its report on disinformation in South Africa’s 2024 election. Titled Subverting Truth for Power, the report details how disinformation was weaponised to manipulate public opinion and undermine the integrity of the country’s seventh general election since the end of apartheid.

“Globally, disinformation is being used as a strategic political tool to manipulate public opinion and undermine democracy,” said CODE’s executive director, Kavisha Pillay. “If left unchecked, it could have dire consequences for the stability of future elections, in South Africa and beyond.”

The report exposes a systematic use of false narratives to erode trust in the electoral process, mainly through sowing distrust in the working of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and questioning the legitimacy of election results. These efforts were intensified by social media’s reach and opaque algorithms, threatening the foundations of the country’s democracy.

False narratives and attacks on the IEC’s credibility were particularly prominent during and after the election cycle. Political actors openly questioned the commission’s capacity to conduct free and fair elections, amplifying distrust in the results and the broader democratic process.

Role of Big Tech in Disinformation Spread

CODE highlights the influence of powerful tech executives – referred to as “tech bros” – who have often shown indifference to democratic principles. The report connects these platforms’ inaction to global disinformation trends, drawing parallels with efforts seen in elections in the United States.

“It’s time to confront the unchecked power of Big Tech and demand meaningful oversight to protect democracy,” added Pillay. As South Africa reflects on the 2024 elections, CODE’s report serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unchecked disinformation. Without urgent intervention, the foundations of democracy could be at risk in future electoral cycles.