The Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has given notice to 192 political parties of its intention to cancel their registration, unless representations are made by March 24.

The IEC said the inactive parties, not represented in any legislative body, have not contested general elections since they were registered and had not renewed their registration by January of this year.

The South African Communist Party was one of the parties served with a notice.

The IEC said it was important to correct the size of the voting register to avoid unnecessary confusion for voters.

“Given increased contestation in elections and the ever-increasing entrance of new political parties, it is crucial that the register of parties is kept current and those parties with no intention of contesting future elections are de-registered,” the IEC pointed out.

The IEC explained that the cancellation will free the usage of names, abbreviated names and colour schemes for the logos of aspirant electoral contestants.

There are currently 609 registered political parties, of which 383 are registered at national level while 226 are registered provincially or at municipal level.

The commission pointed out that there are several benefits that accrue from registration as a party.

“These are, among others, that the political party is entitled to protection by the Commission of its full name, abbreviation of its name, and its logo or symbol. In return, certain obligations are imposed on registered parties. Among those is that a party that is not represented in a Municipal Council, Provincial Legislature or the National Assembly must indicate to the Commission its continued existence. This prescribed indication must be received before the end of January each year,” it said.

The list of parties that are facing the cut can be found here.