By: Natasha Archary

Earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Electoral Amendment Bill which would allow independent candidates to contest both provincial and national elections.
Ramaphosa said the Amendment Bill would be a milestone for the country and democracy, by paving the way for independent candidates.
South Africa’s electoral system was always based on political parties, but that may soon be a thing of the past.
On Thursday, 24 October, the Electoral Amendment Bill was adopted in the National Assembly. Before the bill is passed, it will need to go to the National Council of Provinces.
While the President says the bill will broaden the pool with regards to leadership in the country, several civil society organisations are against the amendment bill, saying the public wasn’t given enough time to engage in the changes.
In August, Homes Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said allowing independents to contest the elections will distort the country’s elections.
There are 400 seats in Parliament, but including independent candidates would mean this has to change to 401, or more seats.
Thomas and Skhumba shared their views on what the climate is regarding independent candidates and their chances of garnering enough seats to skew the elections.
Listeners also shared whether they would give independent candidates their votes, considering there is no proof they are capable of being in a position of power.
Listen to the conversation on Kaya Drive:
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