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Dazel disappointed in faltering finish in Spain

Location: Sport

South African Rugby
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Springbok Women's Sevens head coach Renfred Dazel said they will have to take their HSBC SVNS relegation on the chin, regroup and give their season a fitting finish at their first appearance at the Olympic Games later this year.

The South Africans lost their status as a core team after Spain beat them in Madrid on Sunday, and the Bok Women's Sevens will now have to qualify for the World Rugby Challenger Series again via the continental route.

“We will take a week or so off to clear our heads and then start our Olympic preparations in all earnest,” said Dazel.

“As bad it is for us losing our core status, as exciting it is to go and compete as part of Team South Africa at the Paris Olympics and we need to make the most of that special moment.”

With regards to the 2024 season, Dazel feels that the inconsistency during the series came back to haunt them on Sunday, when they had to beat Spain to retain their status as core team.

“Look, we can try and find excuses like the lack of a pre-season for the squad going into the series or the availability of some players, but that is not going to solve our problem of having to qualify again,” said Dazel.

“This is not the first time we lost our status and I know how despondent everyone is feeling. Thanks to SA Rugby's support of the sevens programme, we can remain competitive and qualify to play in the Challenger Series by winning the Africa Cup Sevens in September. So, there is some light at the end of the tunnel.”

Dazel said the next cycle will involve finding new players to join the fray as well as creating opportunities to play sevens rugby: “We need to find the next group of young players who can take the system forward and that is an exciting prospect.

“We will also need to sit down and look at our personnel for the Africa Cup and start preparing for that with enough time in hand. It was disappointing to lose like this today, especially as we lost our way in the second half again. That dogged us all season and cost us dearly today.”

Against Spain, the South Africans clearly felt the pressure of the knock-out phase of the final tournament of the season and conceded four tries without firing any real shots.

Spain, spurred on by a lively home crowd, scored two tries on each side of the halftime break, a clear indication of their dominance in this game. They were on the attack from the outset and although the Bok Women defended well, the host team hit gaps and after four minutes, Juana Stella scored their first try.

South Africa got their hands on the ball, but more mistakes followed and a try by Paula Requena after hooter saw Spain finish the first half with a 10-0 lead.

Requena's second try, 90 seconds into the second half, all but sealed the deal for the Spanish, and although South Africa had a few more opportunities, they were let down by their handling, with too many knock-ons costing them dearly.

Beatriz Dominguez then put the final nail in the South African coffin with a break-out try from their own 22, to ensure Spain play on the world series again next season, even though they finished one spot lower than the Bok Women in 2024.

South Africa won three out of five times against Spain during the 2024 season, but looked nothing like the team that started the tournament with two dominant performances on Friday, and failed to gain ascendency in any area of play.

Their defence was frantic, they conceded numerous penalties at the breakdown and hardly worked themselves into attacking positions, and when they did, handling errors came at a huge cost.

Spain played with much more composure, passion, and direction in the most important match of the season for both teams.

Scorers:

South Africa 0

Spain 22 (10) – Tries: Juana Stella, Paula Requena (2), Beatriz Dominguez. Conversion: Stella.

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Rugby.

Note to editors: Audio notes of Renfred Dazel can be downloaded here (https://apo-opa.co/3X311vh).

Read moreDazel disappointed in faltering finish in Spain

SA’s democracy is “strong, robust” – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

SA’s democracy is "strong, robust" - President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the 16 million citizens, who cast their vote in the National and Provincial Elections, are proof that South Africa’s democracy is “strong and robust”.

The President was addressing the nation through his weekly newsletter on Monday.

South Africans headed to the polls last week to elect new government leadership for the seventh administration in the country’s most competitive elections since the dawn of democracy in 1994.

“This election has been declared free and fair. It took place peacefully and without serious incidents of intimidation or violence. This is a credit to the Electoral Commission, to the political parties and their leadership, and above all, to the South African people.

“By discharging this important civic duty, South Africans have done more than exercise their right to vote. They have shown that they continue to hold our democratic order and our Constitution in high regard. This successful poll shows that our democracy is strong, that it is robust and that it endures,” President Ramaphosa said.

READ | Government welcomes conclusion of elections

Constitutional order

In this year’s vote, no party won an outright majority in the National Assembly.

This, President Ramaphosa said, presents a “new phase in our democratic journey” in which “political parties will have to strive in earnest to find common ground as we work to rebuild our country”.

“Although every political party carries a mandate based on the commitments they made to the electorate, all parties share an overarching mandate to build a country that is inclusive, united and prosperous.

“This moment in our country calls for responsible leadership and constructive engagement. There can be no place for threats of violence or instability,” he said.

The President called on South Africans to fight for and protect the country’s constitutional order – South Africa’s supreme law.

“This constitutional order is anchored in the rule of law, supported by institutions for advancing democracy, such as the Independent Electoral Commission, and upheld by an independent judiciary.

“South Africans must stand firm against any attempts to undermine the constitutional order we have worked so hard to build, and for which so many struggled and sacrificed.

“Whatever challenges we may face as political events unfold, they should be dealt with in a spirit of cooperation and in accordance with the prescripts of our Constitution and the rule of law,” he said.

READ | 2024 election results a victory for democracy

The President added that all South Africans should take pride in “our own contribution towards giving meaning to the values and principles of our constitutional democracy”.

“As we work as political parties to find each other across the divide in the coming weeks and months, let us demonstrate both in our actions and our utterances that we hold the Constitution and the rule of law to be paramount. Let us remember that whatever authority, whatever power, we are entrusted with must be exercised to advance the interests of the South African people.

“Now more than ever, we need to put our differences aside and work together for the common good,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 06/03/2024 - 09:59

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SAHRC gives 2024 elections the thumbs up

Location: News

SAHRC gives 2024 elections the thumbs up

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has endorsed the 2024 National and Provincial Elections as having been free and fair.

“The South African Human Rights Commission endorses the 2024 National General Elections as free and fair,” the commission said on Sunday.

The commission’s comments come as the Electoral Commission (IEC) is set to announce the results of the elections this evening at 6pm. South Africans went to the polls in the seventh national elections on Wednesday, 29 May.

The SAHRC observed the elections from 27- 29 May 2024.

During this period, the commission observed 161 voting stations and gathered 98 reflections from human rights officials and champions, resulting in a significant national footprint across 259 voting stations.

Reflections

“Our preliminary observations revealed that operationally, 83% of voting stations observed opened on time, and 98% of ballot boxes were assembled in the presence of party agents and observers, although some party agents arrived late.”

In its preliminary reflections, the commission said that 95% of stations had all essential materials, including ballot papers and pens.

It said that most voters took more than 30 minutes to complete their voting process; 16% took two hours or longer, 46% took 30-90 minutes, and 38% took less than 10 minutes.

“We observed that 70% of voting stations experienced connectivity issues. In terms of accessibility, 83% of people with disabilities were able to vote independently, though only 40 stations scored a 10/10 for accessibility.

“Furthermore, 87% of polling stations had measures in place for the elderly, pregnant persons, and other special categories. Security incidents were minimal; no significant issues were observed and minor issues such as inebriated voters, raised tempers, or party agent interference were promptly addressed by SAPS [South African Police Service].”

The SAHRC added that it was aware that the elections “do not occur without minor glitches”.

“Some voting centres experienced slow-moving queues extending into the early hours of the following day, and some voters were turned away, unable to exercise their democratic right due to administrative challenges of registration.

“In some areas voters could not cast their vote due to strike. The Electoral Commission also reported a missing ballot box in Umhlathuze Ward 14, KwaZulu-Natal, which fortunately had already been counted.”

“Our preliminary concerns include the adverse impact of the three-ballot process on turnaround time, the lack of understanding and proper implementation of the Section 24A process, and the lack of uniformity in certain processes, with some stations using one ballot box for mixed votes and others using three separate boxes.”

It further added that accessibility for people with disabilities remains a challenge, privacy in voting booths was a concern, and connectivity issues required officials to alternate between online and manual systems.

“Overall, the Commission observed that the elections proceeded smoothly, without major concerns. The minor challenges monitored do not impact the overall declaration of the elections as free and fair. The SAHRC is further committed to producing a comprehensive final report that reflects the full extent of its observations during the 2024 general elections.”

READ | SA elections were held under “peaceful” conditions – African Union Mission

READ | SADC electoral mission gives Elections 2024 seal of approval

The commission expressed gratitude to South Africans who participated in large numbers to exercise their democratic right to vote.

“We remain committed to ensuring that the civil and political rights of all participants are upheld throughout the electoral process,” it said. - SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 16:17

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Read moreSAHRC gives 2024 elections the thumbs up

Sun sets on 2024 elections

Location: News

Sun sets on 2024 elections

The sun has set on the most arguably contested election in the history of South Africa, with voting, vote counting and the capturing of results completed.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) declared the official results during a ceremony at the national Results Operations Centre on Sunday, attended by, among others, President Cyril Ramaphosa.

This paves the way for the seventh administration, which will lead South Africa for the next five years.

South Africans on 29 May voted using three ballots for the first time because of the inclusion of independent candidates on the ballot. These were the National Ballot, National Regional Ballot and the Provincial Legislature Ballot.

No less than 16 million South Africans made their mark, translating into a voter turnout of 58.61%.

The parties which received the most votes and thus garnered seats in the 400-member National Assembly are as follows:

  • African National Congress (ANC) – 159 seats.
  • Democratic Alliance (DA) – 87 seats.
  • uMkhonto weSizwe party (MK party) – 58 seats.
  • Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) – 39 seats.
  • Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) – 17 seats.
  • Patriotic Alliance (PA) – 9 seats.
  • Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) – 6 seats.
  • ActionSA – 6 seats.
  • African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) – 3 seats.
  • United Democratic Movement (UDM) – 3 seats.
  • African Transformation Movement (ATM) – 2 seats.
  • Al Jama-ah – 2 seats.
  • Build One South Africa (BOSA) – 2 seats.
  • National Coloured Congress (NCC) – 2 seats.
  • Rise Mzansi – 2 seats
  • GOOD Party – 1 seat
  • Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC) – 1 seat
  • United Africans Transformation (UTM) – 1 seat

Winners of the National Assembly votes by each region are as follows (percentages as at 7pm on Sunday):

  • Eastern Cape – ANC with 62.42% of the vote, 16 seats.
  • Free State – ANC with 52.56% of the vote, 6 seats.
  • Gauteng – ANC with 34.62% of the vote, 17 seats.
  • KwaZulu-Natal – MK Party with 44.91% of the vote, 19 seats
  • Mpumalanga – ANC with 51.31% of the vote, 8 seats.
  • Northern Cape – ANC with 49.47% of the vote, 3 seats.
  • Limpopo – ANC with 73.38% of the vote, 16 seats.
  • North West – ANC 58.29% of the vote, 8 seats.
  • Western Cape – DA with 53.37% of the vote, 14 seats

The winners of the provincial legislatures are as follows:

  • Eastern Cape – ANC to lead the legislature with 45 seats won.
  • Free State – ANC to lead the legislature with 16 seats won.
  • Gauteng – ANC to lead the legislature with 28 seats won.
  • KwaZulu-Natal – MK Party to lead the legislature with 37 seats won.
  • Mpumalanga – ANC to lead the legislature with 27 won.
  • Northern Cape – ANC to lead the legislature with 15 seats won
  • Limpopo – ANC to lead the legislature with 48 seats won.
  • North West – ANC to lead the legislature with 23 seats won.
  • Western Cape – DA to lead the legislature with 24 seats won.

“After carefully considering the extensive measures put in place and acknowledging the provisions of section 57(3) of the Electoral Act 1998, the commission declares the results of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, free and fair,” IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya said during the results announcement programme.

The list of elected public representatives was handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa at the ceremony.

On Thursday, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo is expected to officially receive the lists of designated Members of Parliament from the IEC in preparation for the first sitting of the National Assembly, which he will preside over. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 19:30

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2024 election results a victory for democracy

Location: News

2024 election results a victory for democracy

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the final announcement of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections represents a victory for democracy, constitutional order and for all the people of South Africa.

Addressing the ceremony held to announce the results of the 2024 National and Provincial Election on Sunday, the President commended South Africans for participating in the elections, noting that by going to vote, they have taken responsibility not only for the future of themselves and their families, but for the future of their country.

He said South Africans have shown how important their vote is and that they know that their vote counts.

The President said through their votes citizens have demonstrated clearly and plainly that the country’s democracy is strong, robust, and enduring. 

“They have given effect to the clarion call that has resonated across the generations, that the people shall govern…. our people have spoken. As the leaders of political parties, as all those who occupy positions of responsibility in society, we have heard the voices of our people and we must respect their wishes,” President Ramaphosa said at the Electoral Commission’s (IEC) Result Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand.

WATCH | 2024 National and Provincial Elections results announcement

He added that the elections - which took place on Wednesday, 29 May and were preceded by in-country special votes on Monday and Tuesday - have reaffirmed the fact that building a South Africa for all remains the defining mission of the nation. 

The President noted that over the course of the election campaign, parties and candidates have at times differed, often forcefully, and expressed a wide variety of views that are often at odds with each other.

He said throughout the election campaign, parties and candidates have held fast to the fundamental principles of democracy and have affirmed the right of voters to participate in an election that is free, fair, and peaceful.

The will of the people

The President called upon political parties to recognise the results of the election, saying they reflect the will of the people. 

“What this election has made plain is that the people of South Africa expect their leaders to work together to meet their needs. They expect the parties for which they have voted to find common ground, to overcome their differences, to act and work together for the good of everyone. 

“Our people expect all parties to work together within the framework of our constitution and address whatever challenges we encounter peacefully and in accordance with the prescripts of our constitution and the rule of law. Each party emerges from this election with a mandate based on the commitments they each made to the electorate,” President Ramaphosa said.

Partnerships

However, President Ramaphosa emphasised that all the parties must work in partnership with each other and with society more broadly, to build a country that is inclusive, united, and prosperous.

“As we take up our seats in Parliament and in the provincial legislatures, let us appreciate that the seats we occupy do not belong to us, [but] they belong to the people. Whatever authority, whatever power, we are entrusted with must be exercised to advance the interests of the people,” President Ramaphosa said.

Praise for IEC, law enforcement parties and independents

The President commended the IEC for its excellence, professionalism and integrity, despite many challenges.

“As the 2024 election reaches its conclusion, we thank the staff and leadership of the Independent Electoral Commission, who have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of these elections, often under difficult conditions.

“We pay tribute to the men and women of the South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force for ensuring peace and stability during voting, and to the Home Affairs staff who ensured that as many voters as possible had their identity documents on Election Day,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President expressed his gratitude to independent candidates and leaders and members of the various political parties that participated in the elections.  

“I wish to thank all the local and international observer teams, who gave their time and effort to ensure a free and fair election. I also thank the journalists, researchers, camera persons, producers, analysts, and other members of the media, who played such an essential role in ensuring that the South African people were well informed as they went to vote. 

“Above all, we thank the people of South Africa for once again giving life and meaning to the values and principles of our constitutional democracy,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 19:38

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Read more2024 election results a victory for democracy

SA awaits election results

Location: News

SA awaits election results

All eyes are on the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) as South Africans eagerly await the outcome of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

The official results are expected to be announced at the commission’s Results Operations Centre in Midrand on Sunday evening.

Millions of eligible voters across the country made their mark at more than 23 000 polling stations in South Africa's seventh democratic elections on Wednesday.

This followed two successful days of special votes, which saw South Africans who had registered for a special vote making their mark at 22 626 voting stations and during home visits across the country.

Voting abroad took place between 17 and 18 May 2024 in 111 South African missions across the world.

Observers, from both South Africa and other countries, have closely monitored the electoral process.

At a media briefing, the commission said the release of the official results on the fourth day after Election Day was to factor in the third ballot and to deal with the 50% additional work imposed by the third ballot. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 15:19

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Call for caution amid expected cold snap

Location: News

Call for caution amid expected cold snap

With a drop in temperatures expected in various parts of the country, the City of Tshwane has appealed to residents to stay safe during the cold weather.

“A drop in temperatures over parts of the country, including the City of Tshwane as forecast by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), is noticeable. The possibility of thundershowers with cold and windy conditions is forecast over parts of Gauteng from the afternoon of Sunday, 02 June 2024 extending to Monday, 03 June 2024,” the City’s Emergency Services Department said on Sunday.

The city has called on residents to keep warm but remain safe this winter by observing the following safety precautions:

  • If there is any fire danger exposure to dwellings like shacks or houses, vegetation or veld fires, dial the toll-free number 107 for emergencies.
  • Burning charcoal gives off deadly amounts of carbon monoxide so do not leave it in the house when sleeping.
  • Never use fuels that are not designed for your heating unit.
  • Improper use of space heaters (izimbawula, braziers and electric, gas and paraffin heaters, among others) should be avoided.
  • Unapproved controlled burning must never be carried out (no controlled burning will be approved during this period).

The city said the safety tips are no exhaustive and encouraged citizens to do everything they possibly can to stay safe.

“The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department will continue to monitor updates by SAWS and issue further notices when required,” it said.

Floods in Eastern Cape

Meanwhile, some parts of the Eastern Cape are flooded, including the Sarah Baartman, Nelson Mandela, Amathole, OR Tambo and Buffalo City municipalities.

Two people have reported died, two are missing and 65 people have been rescued.

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Zolile Williams said teams were on site attending flooded roads and houses.

Emergency services have been working throughout the night and are still working and searching to assist people affected by the flooding.

"We send our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families," said MEC Williams.

He said officials in the Provincial Disaster Management Centre was monitoring the situation as the rain weather is expected to continue until Monday.

Drop in temperatures

In a statement on Friday, the SAWS said that following a relatively dry and warmer-than-usual month of May, South Africans can expect the first significant drop in daytime temperatures over the coming days, with showers and thundershowers possible across most parts and even some snow over elevated areas.

The weather service said this was a result of a developing cutoff low-pressure system (the northwards displacement of a low-pressure in the upper levels of the atmosphere) over the western and southern parts of the country from Sunday into Monday.

“Cut-off low-pressure systems are commonly associated with widespread rainfall, snowfall, strong to gale-force winds, and rough sea conditions in winter.”

The weather service added that cold temperatures, between 12 and 17°C, are expected across the western and southern parts of the country spreading to the central and eastern parts (including the Free State, North West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga Highveld, and the interior of KwaZulu-Natal) on Monday.

Very cold temperatures, with a maximum temperatures below 10°C, with mountain snowfalls are possible over the northern high ground of the Eastern Cape, the eastern high ground of the Western Cape, the southern high ground of the Northern Cape, parts of the Drakensberg and in Lesotho on Monday, it said.

The system is expected to weaken and exit over the country's southern coast on Tuesday, with rainfall still expected over parts of the Western and Eastern Cape.

“The remainder of the country will see the return of clear weather conditions, but temperatures will remain cold,” said SAWS, adding that forecasts might change during the course of the weekend. - SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 13:43

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President signs law allowing emergency access to retirement funds

Location: News

President signs law allowing emergency access to retirement funds

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Revenue Laws Amendment Bill of 2023, which establishes a “two-pot” system that gives members of retirement funds access to retirement savings without having to resign or cash out entire pension funds.

The amendment law introduces a “two-pot” retirement system to address the concerns related to lack of preservation before retirement and lack of access to retirement funds by households in financial distress.

According to a statement by the Presidency, this retirement system comprises a savings and retirement component for contributions made after 1 September 2024, while historical retirement benefits will be housed in a vested component.

Individuals will have access to amounts in the savings component before retirement for times of financial distress, and the amounts in the retirement component are preserved until retirement.

“The primary objective of the two-pot retirement system is to provide flexibility for fund members to access their retirement savings during emergencies, without necessitating resignation.

“The reform introduced by the legislation strives to strike a balance between long-term security and immediate needs, recognising life's unpredictability,” said the Presidency.

It permits fund members to access a portion of their savings during crises, such as those seen during the COVID-19 challenges.

These changes ensure the retirement system remains responsive to diverse financial needs, supporting both long-term financial security and immediate assistance during emergencies.

Traditional retirement systems primarily focus on long-term savings, often lacking the adaptability to address immediate financial crises.

President Ramaphosa said: “While we are continuing the task of growing our economy to create more opportunities for all South Africans and reduce the financial vulnerability affecting many individuals and households, the new retirement system offers protection and dignity to those who need it the most to overcome financial stress.”

South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill

Meanwhile, the President has also signed into law the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill, which effects a number of amendments that bring South Africa in line with the World Anti-Doping Code of 2021.

The World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) role is to promote, coordinate, and monitor the fight against drugs in sports.

The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) is a public entity under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and is defined in the amended legislation as the national anti-doping organisation.

The legislative amendment also clarifies the powers of SAIDS.  

The SAIDS has  major role to play in preventing the use of prohibited substances in the South African and international sporting environment that are contrary to the principles of fair play and the health and well-being of athletes.

The amendments enacted by President Ramaphosa have been induced by a World Anti-Doping Agency review of relevant South African legislation in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 16:31

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President Ramaphosa assents to South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law legislation that ensures the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport complies with the World Anti-Doping Code which harmonises anti-doping policies, rules and regulations with sport organisations and among public authorities globally.

President Ramaphosa has signed into law the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill which effects a number of amendments that bring South Africa in line with the World Anti-Doping Code of 2021.

The World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) role is to promote, coordinate, and monitor the fight against drugs in sports.

The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) is a public entity under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and is defined in the amended legislation as the national anti-doping organisation.

The legislative amendment also clarifies the powers of SAIDS. The SAIDS has  major role to play in preventing the use of prohibited substances in the South African and international sporting environment that are contrary to the principles of fair play and the health and well-being of athletes

The amendments enacted by President Ramaphosa have been induced by a World Anti-Doping Agency review of relevant South African legislation in 2022.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa assents to South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill

SADC electoral mission gives Elections 2024 seal of approval

Location: News

SADC electoral mission gives Elections 2024 seal of approval

The Southern African Development Community Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) has described the pre-election and voting phases of South Africa’s National and Provincial Elections as having being held in an “orderly, peaceful and free atmosphere”.

South Africa’s elections were held by the Electoral Commission (IEC) on Wednesday, 29 May.

In a preliminary statement, Former Zambian Vice President and SEOM Head, Enock Kavindele, said some 84 observers were deployed to all nine provinces and they engaged with stakeholders from all parts of society on the elections.

“The mission observed that the country was calm and peaceful in the pre-election, election-day, and the immediate post-election period. I must emphasise that this was a very conducive environment for the elections, where only a few isolated incidences of political violence were reported.

“It was the concern of stakeholders that the incidences prevented special voting and final election campaign events in the areas. Apart from these isolated incidences, our observers deployed across the country witnessed numerous peaceful, well planned, and highly attended political rallies,” he said.

He noted that the South African Police Service (SAPS) “maintained its vigilance and preserved peace” during the election period with “more resources to high-risk areas to address eventualities”.

Best practice and recommendations

The mission praised the IEC for its best practices on the following:

  • Online voter registration for citizens, including in the diaspora, which encouraged young and first-time voters to register;
  • With the support of the Department of International Relations and Co-operation, for facilitating voting by South African residents abroad;
  • Implementation of special voting, particularly to include voters who for reasons of infirmity or other challenges, would not have been able to cast their votes at the polling stations;
  • Swift responsiveness to false, misleading information, particularly online/social media; and
  • Openness to the public and close liaison with political parties and independent candidates.

Kavindele said that while the mission to the South African elections has not expired yet, it has made some recommendations.

These include:

  • Government and the National Assembly are urged to ensure that substantive electoral law reforms are debated and adopted early in the next electoral cycle in order to avoid the introduction of electoral reforms close to the election periods
  • The IEC is urged to assess options on how best to ensure that the Voter Management Devices do not present challenges encountered on Election Day. The IEC could consider a manual voter’s roll to be displayed at polling stations so that voters can verify where they are registered
  • The IEC is encouraged to review its civic and voter education programmes, learning from the challenges experienced in 2024, and design new programmes that comprehensively address the new electoral processes.
  • The SAPS should consider recruiting adequate police officers to be permanently stationed all polling stations.

“In conclusion, the SEOM observed that the pre-election and voting phases of the 2024 National and Provincial Assembly Elections were professionally organised, and conducted in an orderly, peaceful and free atmosphere, which enabled the voters to express their democratic will and those who sought office to campaign freely.

“The Mission commends the people of South Africa for the political maturity, spirit of tolerance and calm that generally prevailed during this electoral period. In the event of any electoral disputes, the Mission appeals to all contestants to channel their concerns through established legal procedures and processes,” Kavindele said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 13:29

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Over 97% of votes complete

Location: News

Over 97% of votes complete

More than 97% of votes, or 22 677 of 23 292 voting districts, have been completed, according to the Electoral Commission’s 2024 National and Provincial Elections Results Dashboard.

As at 8:20am on Saturday, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) results system showed that nationally, with votes being 97.39% complete, the African National Congress (ANC) had 40.11% of the votes, followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 21.72%. The uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK Party) follows with 14.83%, while the Economic Freedom Fighters are fourth with 9.37%.

Other party results making up the top 10 are as follows:

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) – 3.96%;

Patriotic Alliance (PA) – 2.04%;

Freedom Front Plus – 1.36%;

Action SA – 1.16%;

African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) – 0.6%, and

United Democratic Movement (UDM) – 0.49%.

Vote capturing and validation continue. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 08:34

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Four sentenced for destroying essential infrastructure in Limpopo

Location: News

Four sentenced for destroying essential infrastructure in Limpopo

The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the sentencing of four accused, aged between 31 and 35, by the Thabazimbi Regional Court for tempering with and destroying essential infrastructure.

The four were sentenced on Friday after sentence handed down on Friday, 31 May.

The court heard that on 10 May 2023 at around 23:20pm, the four accused -- Nelson Chama (31), Artwell Chakaraya (31), Blessing Mathongo (35), and Ophius Marindire (32) -- cut off the Transnet Railway line that was connected to Dwaalboom.

This was discovered by a security guard who was patrolling the area. During his patrol, he noticed some suspicious activity when he passed Swartkip crossing. He stopped his vehicle and checked the place, and found that some 500 meters of contact lines (solar copper cables) were cut off and stolen. The total cost was R200 000.

Police were summoned to the scene and opened a case of tampering and destroying essential infrastructure.

Later that day, the suspects were arrested in the Brits policing area after police found them in possession of suspected stolen copper cables. They were arrested and linked to a case of stolen copper cables at Northam policing area.

The case was assigned to Constable Foster Mabeba of Essential Infrastructure Task Team Unit for further investigation.

During the court trial, the accused were denied bail until the Thabazimbi Regional Court sentenced all of them on Friday, 31 May, as follows:

Count 1: Tampering and destroying essential infrastructure - 30 years direct imprisonment.

Count 2: Theft of ferrous or non-ferrous metals - 15 years direct imprisonment.

Count 3: Failure to use port of entry - tow years direct imprisonment.

Count 4: Contravention of Immigration Act: Entering the Republic of South Africa without passports - two years direct imprisonment.

"We appreciate the conviction and sentencing as passed by the court and all the efforts by the arresting team as well the investigating officer," said Hadebe. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 09:16

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Read moreFour sentenced for destroying essential infrastructure in Limpopo

Results update: ANC leads most provincial votes

Location: News

Results update: ANC leads most provincial votes

With the second day of vote counting in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections still underway, the African National Congress (ANC) is currently taking the lead and continues to secure most of the votes in most provinces, except in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

As at 11:45am on Friday, the leaderboard at the National Results Operation Centre (ROC) in Midrand, showed that the ANC was leading the votes in the Eastern Cape with 739 564, followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) at 138 958, and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) at 109 630.  

A total of 67.65% vote capturing and processing had been completed in the Eastern Cape, including 3 293 of 4 868 voting districts completed.

The ANC was also taking a lead in the Free State with 336 267 votes, followed by the DA with 135 814, and EFF at 84 928. A total of 82.79% vote capturing had been completed in that province, including 1 313 of 1 586 voting districts completed.

In Gauteng, the ANC was leading with 663 401, DA 580 761, EFF 253 632, while the new kids on the block, Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party had secured 186 219 votes. 

In Limpopo, the ANC had secured 530 882, EFF 91 411, and the DA 45 028. Limpopo had captured 47.57% votes including 1 530 of the 3 216 voting districts completed.

In the North West, a total of 58.295 votes had been captured, including 1 013 of the 1 738 voting districts completed, which showed the ANC leading with 279 283, followed by EFF 80 090, and DA 56 638. 

A total of 63.22% votes had been captured in Mpumalanga with 1 145 of the 1 811 voting districts completed. The ANC in Mpumalanga had 344 794 votes followed by MK with 125 646 votes, DA 97 156, and EFF 93 452.

Counting in Northern Cape is almost complete with 99.86% votes captured, including 729 of 730 voting districts completed. The ANC in Northern Cape led with 194 373 votes, while DA had 83 809, and 51 813for the EFF.

In KwaZulu-Natal, which is among the most contested provinces, the MK is taking the lead with 625 363 votes, followed by ANC with 259 867, and Inkatha Freedom party (IFP) with 248 567, and DA with 200 493 votes. 

Results continue to be captured and the leaderboard updated.

The IEC is expected to give the progress report on the elections at 4pm.

At a media briefing on Thursday, the Electoral Commission (IEC) announced that vote counting in the National and Provincial Elections 2024 has now been completed, and the process to capture and validate results was underway.

 “The process of results compilation entails ensuring accuracy and validation of the results.

This process involves scanning each result slip to create an image of the result, double blind capture of each result slip, and auditing of each result slip by independent auditors. The result system was audited externally and parties had occasion to also audit,” the Commission’s Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said at the briefing. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 12:30

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Read moreResults update: ANC leads most provincial votes

SA elections were held under “peaceful” conditions – African Union Mission

Location: News

SA elections were held under “peaceful” conditions – African Union Mission

Head of the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM), former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, has declared that South Africa’s 2024 National and Provincial Elections were held under peaceful conditions.

The observer mission was deployed to South Africa from 21 May at the invitation of the South African Government and the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC).

This as South Africans went to the polls on Wednesday, 29 May.

“Overall, the mission notes that the 2024 South African National and Provincial Elections were pivotal for the country’s democratic future and had implications for political stability within South Africa and the sub-region.

“South Africans freely exercised their constitutional right to vote and voted peacefully. The participation of youth and women offers hope for the future of democracy in Africa, and indicates an increased trust in the electoral process.

"While the electoral process is still ongoing, we implore all aggrieved parties to use the existing election dispute resolution mechanisms to address their grievances, if any,” Kenyatta said in a preliminary statement.

AUEOM staff have been deployed to several parts of the country to observe aspects of the elections.

“Since arriving in South Africa, the AUEOM has engaged with key stakeholders, including the IEC, the media, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), faith-based organisations, representatives of the international community, citizens' observer groups and Heads of other Election Observer Missions, the African Diplomatic Corps and the international community, and academia.

“The Mission deployed 21 teams of 65 observers across nine provinces to observe the special voting on 28 May and polling on 29 May 2024, focusing on various aspects of the electoral process. A final report with comprehensive findings and recommendations will be issued two months after the elections,” Kenyatta stated.

He observed that the National and Provincial Elections (NPE2024) was held with “a renewed enthusiasm among South Africans to strengthen their democratic gains”.

“This election was notably competitive due to the emergence of several new political parties. Despite the peaceful and credible nature of the previous six elections, the 2024 elections were marked by a tense political environment, intensified by several litigations.

“The pre-election period saw heightened tensions and concerns over the potential misuse of social media for spreading fake news, disinformation, and misinformation, which could incite violence.

“Nevertheless, the elections proceeded without major incidents, maintaining a pattern of peaceful conduct. Despite the challenges and tensions, the 2024 elections were conducted peacefully, demonstrating the resilience of South Africa's democratic processes,” Kenyatta said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 16:17

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Read moreSA elections were held under “peaceful” conditions – African Union Mission

Post-election Reflections and Scenarios Conference GQ

Location: MyPR

Do you want a deeper understanding of the outcome of the 2024 General Election? RICI will be hosting a conference entitled POST-ELECTION REFLECTIONS AND SCENARIOS on Wednesday 19 June, at the Bishop’s Lodge Conference Centre in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) and streamed. The May 29 general election presents the country with many firsts, including the …

Read morePost-election Reflections and Scenarios Conference GQ

Impilo Collection Foundation to Provide Critical Support to Victims of Gender-Based Violence and Promote Education with Donation of 200 Blankets

Location: MyPR

The Impilo Collection Foundation recognises the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and violence. In line with this vision, funds were raised by our founder, Angela Yeung, during her recent mountain climb up the daunting Manaslu, standing tall at 8,163 meters, which surpasses her previous triumph on the Island Peak at …

Read moreImpilo Collection Foundation to Provide Critical Support to Victims of Gender-Based Violence and Promote Education with Donation of 200 Blankets

Digital tool created to address online misinformation during SA elections

Location: MyPR

Tales of Turning – an organisation which harnesses research, social media, and technology for good – has partnered with the Center for an Informed Public at the University of Washington, and the Media Forensics Hub at Clemson University to conduct a field experiment focused on preventing mis- and disinformation over South Africa’s election period. Digital …

Read moreDigital tool created to address online misinformation during SA elections

South Africa Podcast and Music Festival to Feature Keynote Address by Dr. Thebe Ikalafeng

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

The SA Podcast and Music Festival is thrilled to announce that Dr. Thebe Ikalafeng, a globally recognized African branding authority and influential advocate for a brand-led African renaissance, will deliver the opening keynote address at this year’s event. The festival will take place from [Event Dates] at [Event Location]. Dr. Ikalafeng’s keynote, titled “Content Culture …

Read moreSouth Africa Podcast and Music Festival to Feature Keynote Address by Dr. Thebe Ikalafeng

Over 55% of election results captured

Location: News

Over 55% of election results captured

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) had captured close to 55% of the ballots as of 9am on Friday. 

According to the IEC results dashboard, the African National Congress (ANC) is taking the lead nationally, with 3 236 550 votes representing 42.07%. 

The ANC is followed by the Democratic Alliance with 1 821 912 at 23.68%, while the new kids on the block the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has already secured 832 178 at 10.82%. 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), which is currently the third biggest party in Parliament, is sitting at 9.58% with 737 238 votes. 

Newcomer, the Patriotic Alliance (PA) is also making headway at position five with 211 738 at 2.75%. 

These are currently the leading parties by voting station, as the IEC officials continue to capture the results in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections. 

The counting procedures have been concluded with only a few voting stations reported to still be counting at 3pm on Thursday. 

“The process of results compilation entails ensuring accuracy and validation of the results. This process involves scanning each result slip to create an image of the result, double-blind capture of each result slip, auditing of each result slip by independent auditors,” the IEC said. 

According to the commission, the resulting system was audited externally and the parties also had to verify them. 

The results have been trickling in throughout the night, as capturing continues. 

The IEC said last night they were sitting on a 58.69% voter turnout, hovering just below 60% of voters, with bigger stations’ results still to come in. 

As per the IEC data, 27 782 777 people registered to vote, with 7 943 840 total votes cast. 

Of these, 7 840 658 were valid, with 103 182 spoilt votes.

The results continue to be captured and displayed on the leaderboards at the Results Operations Centre in Midrand. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 10:03

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Read moreOver 55% of election results captured

Over 20% of ballots counted in 2024 elections

Location: News

Over 20% of ballots counted in 2024 elections

Halfway through the first day of vote counting in South Africa’s 2024 National and Provincial Elections, over 20% of votes have been tallied. 

This is as of 2pm on Thursday at 4 710 out of 23 293 voting districts. 

The Electoral Commission’s (IEC) results dashboard shows that the African National Congress (ANC) currently leads the polls with 43.51%, followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 24.65%. 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is sitting at 8.85%, while the uMKhonto we Sizwe (MK Party) is at around 8.11% and 4.07% for the Patriotic Alliance (PA). 

Millions of South Africans took to the polls to make their mark in the National and Provincial Elections on Wednesday with many facing long, snaking queues, reminiscent of the 1994 elections. 

Polls closed at 9pm last night but all citizens who were in the line were allowed to exercise their democratic right to vote for their party of choice. 

The IEC said the counting of ballots occurs at the voting station where the votes are cast. 

Party agents, independent candidate agents, and observers oversee the entire counting and results process and are present at all times. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

 

Gabisile
Thu, 05/30/2024 - 14:31

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Read moreOver 20% of ballots counted in 2024 elections