Evaluating election management in South Africa's 2009 elections

This article examines election management and the role of South Africa's election management body (EMB) in the context of the country's 2009 elections. It outlines and analyses the dynamics and challenges faced by South Africa's Electoral Commission in managing the country's fourth democratic election, argues the case for election management and emphasises that election management can help in the promotion of electoral democracy. Specifically, the paper analyses the financial costs and other challenges experienced by the Electoral Commission during the 2009 elections, including those related to overseas voters, the use of technology to enhance election management, and the importance of EMBs in the planning and management of elections internationally. The paper concludes with an assessment of the relevance of election management in the promotion of electoral democracy and proposals on how effective election management may contribute to the success of meaningful and sustainable elections to enhance South Africa's democracy.