The Independence Electoral Commission (IEC) of a certain country recently faced a significant setback when its planned registration process for the upcoming elections failed to commence as scheduled. This delay resulted in substantial financial losses for the institution, amounting to approximately P13 million.

According to Jeff Siamisang, the IEC secretary, the registration period was initially planned to begin on October 1st. However, a South African company engaged to print the registration books failed to deliver them on time. The reasons provided by the company included supply chain issues resulting from the global COVID-19 lockdowns and power outages in South Africa, which adversely affected production.

But there are financial implications for the IEC, the failure to commence the registration process as scheduled has resulted in significant financial losses for the IEC. Siamisang revealed that from November 1st to November 13th, the institution incurred abortive costs amounting to approximately P12,861,505.55, excluding legal expenses. This translates to a daily loss of approximately P1,071,792.12. These funds, once spent, cannot be recovered, putting a strain on the IEC’s budget and hindering its ability to carry out other essential operations.

According to Siamisang, there are challenges faced by the IEC. He says the financial prejudice suffered by the IEC due to the failed registration process has put the organization in a difficult position. The IEC had already contracted various service providers for services such as security, registration officer allowances, movable ablution facilities, and rentals of polling stations. Terminating these services would not only result in potential legal action for breach but would also leave the IEC ill-prepared for when the registration process eventually commences.

Moreover, the IEC had planned to conduct the general voter registration process from October 4th to October 31st, 2023, and had informed stakeholders of these dates. However, due to the delays caused by the South African company’s inability to deliver the registration books on time, the registration period had to be rescheduled to November 1st to November 30th, 2023. This forced the IEC to realign its schedule for the delivery of elections, taking into account the loss of one month.

In concluding, Siamisang observes that the failed registration process for the upcoming elections has proven to be a costly setback for the IEC, resulting in a loss of close to P13 million. The delay caused by the South African company’s failure to deliver the registration books on time has not only incurred significant financial losses but has also disrupted the IEC’s planned schedule and strained its budget. Moving forward, it is crucial for the IEC to address these challenges effectively to ensure the smooth execution of future electoral processes.