South Africa’s IEC Registers Over 937,000 Voters on Final Day of Special Voting
Image Source: IEC
Published by Everything ZA News
Johannesburg, 28 May 2024 – The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has successfully registered and processed approximately 937,144 voters on the second and final day of Special Voting. This significant turnout surpasses figures from previous elections, indicating a positive trend for the official election day on May 29.
IEC Chief Executive Sy Mamabolo expressed satisfaction with the process. “We are pleased by the diligence of the electoral staff who visited voters at homes and places of confinement to administer home visits. This category of voters would otherwise have not been able to record their political choice,” Mamabolo stated.
During a media briefing on the final day of special votes, the IEC also addressed its preparedness for the upcoming general elections. Despite the successful registration process, Mamabolo voiced concerns over unlawful conduct directed at IEC operations and electoral officials. Incidents reported included disturbances during the voting process and intimidation of staff, predominantly in Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape.
“We urge all South Africans, including political party members, supporters, and ordinary citizens, to allow electoral officials to carry out their responsibilities,” Mamabolo said. He called on the public and political entities to refrain from acts that incite violence, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful electoral environment.
Mamabolo also expressed gratitude towards law enforcement agencies for their support and efforts in safeguarding the electoral process. He reassured voters who were unable to participate in the two-day special voting period that they could still cast their votes on election day. “Voters who, for whatever reason, were unable to cast a special vote may still vote at a voting station at which they are registered on election day, May 29,” he confirmed.
Earlier in the week, the IEC’s Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Masego Sheburi highlighted the extensive efforts of the Commission. “An estimated 201,794 voting station visits of special votes were processed in 22,626 service points. About 624,593 voters will be visited by 62,000 officials over the two days, from the Electoral Commission, accompanied by political party agents and observers, where they are available,” Sheburi detailed.
The IEC’s successful handling of the special voting period sets a positive precedent for the national elections. As South Africa prepares for the polls, the Commission remains committed to ensuring a transparent, fair, and peaceful voting process.
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