Is the IEC compromised?

Tough question to answer, yes. First things first though: politicians, both in the ruling party and in opposition parties are under immense pressure at this stage. Some must preserve their stay in power while some must justify election into power. Given the stress that comes with an election, it is expected that some will create all sorts of excuses to justify their impending defeat, while some will seek to manipulate the system in ways that will help them hold on.

The overriding factor then is not to trust any politician a month before an election. Of course there are a few exceptions, but by and large politicians must do what they must do to get votes. Propaganda is an essential element to what politicians must do: they must carefully and intelligently present issues in order to gain favour from the electorate. Take whatever they say with caution- if you were in their position, you probably would behave just like them. It comes with the territory.