We are a permanent body created by the Constitution to manage free and fair elections at all levels of government. Although publicly funded and accountable to parliament, we are independent of the government. We compile and maintain a register of parties; undertake and promote research into electoral matters; develop and promote the development of electoral expertise and technology in all spheres of government; continuously review electoral laws and proposed electoral laws, and make recommendations; promote voter education; declare the results of elections for national, provincial and municipal legislative bodies within seven days; and appoint appropriate public administrations in any sphere of government to conduct elections when necessary.