As the nation braces for the general elections in May, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has declared its preparedness for the democratic exercise.
President Cyril Ramaphosa recently designated May 29 as a public holiday and the official election date, marking a significant milestone in the electoral process: 30 years of democracy.
With voter registration platforms now closed, the IEC has reported a substantial turnout, with 27 757 328 individuals having registered to cast their votes.
The official list of 23 292 voting stations, including addresses and operational details, will be available for public inspection on April 12.
Changes to the voting system
In a media briefing on Monday, the IEC chief electoral officer, Sy Mamabolo, outlined key details of the electoral scheme, highlighting changes to the voting system.
Unlike in previous elections, this year’s vote will witness the introduction of three distinct ballot papers: the regional ballot for provincial representation in parliament, the national ballot contested exclusively by political parties to ensure overall proportionality, and the provincial ballot encompassing both political parties and independent candidates for provincial legislature representation.
Mamabolo said special provisions have been made for voters facing exceptional circumstances. Those unable to reach voting stations due to infirmity or confinement may apply for a special vote at home.
Special vote
Additionally, individuals unable to vote in their designated districts on election day can apply for a special vote ahead of time. Special voting arrangements will occur on May 27 and 28, with applications closing on May 3.
“Those who will not be in their voting districts on May 29 2024 may apply for a special vote to cast ballots ahead of election day,” Mamabolo said.
“Both home visits and station-based special votes will happen on two days, the 27th and 28th of May 2024. The applications for special votes will close on May 3 2024.
“Those who intend to vote outside of the country and who are registered on a specific country’s segment of the voters’ roll do not have to give notice to the CEO that they will be voting in that country.
“The law assumes that they will be voting at the diplomatic mission of registration.”
Objections to the voters’ roll
Additionally, by March 4, 2024, the IEC must have completed its investigations and made its decisions regarding any objections to the provisional voters’ roll.
Following the resolution of objections, Mamabolo confirmed that he would certify the voters’ roll on March 12.
Mamabolo reiterated the IEC’s commitment to ensuring a smooth electoral process, urging all stakeholders to adhere to established procedures and deadlines.
“The publication of the timetable and the cut-off dates it entails serve as an impetus for the intensification of the preparations,” he said.
“All staff of the commission stand ready to fulfil their tasks and thus ensure that the commission meets its constitutional duties pertaining to the 2024 general elections.”
