The Independent Electoral Committee (IEC) has set the crucial first voter registration weekend for November 18 and 19.
Currently, the voters roll includes 26.2-million people with 14.4-million being women and 11.6-million men.
IEC CEO Sy Mamabolo made the announcement during the launch of the National and Provincial Elections 2024 (NPE 2024) campaign at the Gallagher Estate in Midrand.
Said Mamabolo: “We urge you to actively participate in the registration weekends and exercise your responsibility as engaged citizens who choose their own representatives.
“We extend a call to all electoral stakeholders to stand shoulder to shoulder with us, working collaboratively to make these historic elections a resounding success.”
30 of democracy
NPE 2024 holds particular significance as it marks 30 years of democracy and includes independent parties on the ballot for the first time since 1994.
IEC chairperson Mosotho Moepya emphasised the importance of the election, highlighting that the outcome depends on the results of the voter registration weekend.
This weekend aims to register new voters and allow existing ones to review and update their registration details.
“This is an election of particular significance. In an election, time is never lost at the end but in the beginning,” Moepya said.
Mamabolo confirmed that 23 269 voting stations have been established for NPE 2024 and that the IEC will approach the election with thorough preparations, including dry runs to be held at the weekend.
Mamabolo called on all electoral stakeholders to unite with the commission to ensure the successful delivery of the NPE 2024.
He also clarified that the election date will be determined by President Cyril Ramaphosa in consultation with the commission, saying these consultations are ongoing.
“An election is possible between May and the middle of August 2024,” said Mamabolo.
“The proclamation of the election date is by our head of state, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa after consultation with the electoral commission.
“Our expectation is that the provincial elections will be, as they have for the past 30 years, be synchronised with the national election.”
The campaign: Your Democracy, Own it!
During the launch, the IEC also unveiled its new election theme Your Democracy Own it, and its logo.
It explained that the theme aims to celebrate democracy by sharing the realistic stories of young people from various regions, and offering a personalised perspective on the principles outlined in the constitution.
The campaign will be spread across various media platforms, underscoring the commission’s readiness for the upcoming elections.
Moepya. explained: “As we gaze upon 2024, an election year of unique significance marking not only another stride in South Africa’s democratic journey but also celebrating the 30th birthday of our electoral democracy, let us remember that democracy is not a destination; it is a perpetual journey.
“It thrives on our active engagement, reverence for its values, and collective effort to surmount challenges.
“With hope and determination, we embark on this journey knowing that the next 30 years hold opportunities for growth, unity, and progress.
“Together, as South Africans, we shall ensure that our electoral democracy continues to shine as a beacon for the world.”
