The use of technology and social networking proved to be a key factor in the recent U.S. presidential elections. Barack Obama’s campaign effectively stimulated voter turnout and fundraising through the use of mobile and online technologies, resulting in a campaign victory marked by record numbers of votes cast.
Political parties on the African continent seem to be paying attention to these valuable lessons in 21st century electioneering. In South Africa, the Congress of the People (COPE) is the latest political party to try to make a real impact on the voting public through the use of mobile technology.
In partnership with Cellbook, a Cape Town based mobile applications development company, COPE has made its full election manifesto downloadable through an sms service. Mr Bertus Preller, Marketing Manager at Cellbook, says:
“COPE’s decision to use sms-text messaging demonstrates South Africa’s emerging technology climate – one where South African’s are increasingly likely to ditch their home landlines and rely solely on their mobile phones. But using mobile technology is more than just a trendy gimmick; it is an attempt to build a direct, personal, and immediate connection with people. And it looks like they’re responding. Technology is becoming more personal and vital to day-to-day activities, historic moments and social banter. Sms-text messaging directly from a candidate offers voters a more special, personal experience and is a clear sign of what’s ahead – more direct contact with elected officials.”
According to Mr Preller, COPE is the first political party in the world to deliver a full election manifesto to party members on a mobile cellular device.
The election manifesto can be downloaded by mobile subscribers in South Africa by sending a sms containing the word “COPE” to 35950.
