IEC

2 June 2024

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

648 views

2 June 2024

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

6668 views

2 June 2024

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

10755 views

2 June 2024

Security Cluster ready to enforce law and order

Location: News

Security Cluster ready to enforce law and order

The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster says it stands ready to deal with any threats of instability ahead of the declaration of the election results in Midrand this evening.

“As the Security Cluster, we assure South Africans that law enforcement agencies stand ready to maintain peace and stability, as they have done throughout the election period.

“Any attempt to undermine the authority of the State and South Africa’s constitutional order will not be tolerated and will be dealt with accordingly,” Cele assured citizens on Sunday.

The Minister outlined measures taken by law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and stability during the election process.

WATCH |

As the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) prepares to announce the election results, Cele stated that the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has confirmed its readiness to ensure a peaceful environment following the election results declaration.

“We would like to assure the country that the Constitution provides the mandate to manage the elections to the IEC. Therefore, the decision to declare the results rests solely with the IEC, in accordance with the law.”

In addition, the Minister said the law provides mechanisms to raise disputes with the electoral processes and only those prescribed processes must be followed.

“As such, there cannot be any room for threats of instability to register objections or concerns about the electoral process.”

READ | IEC receives 579 objections

Defence and Military Veterans Minister Thandi Modise emphasised respect for the Constitution and each other’s rights.

She told journalists that while they have not singled out any party for engagement ahead of the release of the results, they have reiterated their calls for the respect for the rule of law.

“We have, before the elections, called for calm. We have also asked people not to do that which is not legal in this country. We had also indicated that we would not tolerate anybody breaching or tarnishing the name of South Africa thus far because we have always behaved according to our Constitution in the past elections.”

Modise appealed to all parties and citizens to respect the rights of others.

“We are hoping that our plea to all parties involved will be heard by everybody involved… We do not think that we want to have a conversation across or with one individual party. We are appealing to South Africans to respect the laws of South Africa,” the Defence Minister pleaded.

Modise said her department had learnt lessons from the unrest in July 2021.

“There were some issues [during the July 2021 unrest]. We arrived a little bit late as the Defence Department. I can assure you that that was a good lesson. We are not late these days. We get there on time, when needed. We are prepared. We don’t have to have help from somewhere else to get to where we are going. We have said that we will not tolerate anybody interfering with the rights of the rest of the citizens,” Modise said.

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, emphasised that nobody was exempt from the law.

“… Anybody who threatens the security or the stability of the country, anybody who wants to undermine the constitutional order of the country, irrespective of who they are… the law enforcement will have to deal with them.”

According to Ntshavheni, all political parties signed a code of conduct that prescribes how they must conduct themselves.

“… The violation of the code of conduct will then be enforced because that’s what all political parties agreed to before we entered this phase of the elections.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 16:19

417 views

2 June 2024

Stage set for final election results

Location: News

Stage set for final election results

The stage is set at the Electoral Commission’s (IEC) National Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand, as South Africa waits with baited breath for the results of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

Held on Wednesday, 29 May 2024, the elections saw millions of eligible voters across the country making their way to more than 23 000 polling stations to cast their votes in the much-contested seventh democratic elections.

The ceremony for the announcement of the results is expected to start at 6pm.

This after the capturing and validating of votes concluded late evening on Saturday.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver an address during the ceremony.

Among the government Ministers who have arrived at the venue are Police Minister Bheki Cele and Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

This year’s elections recorded a total of 568 374 newly registered voters, including those aged 16 – 29 years, who accounted for 445 089 of the newly registered voters. There were over 27 million registered voters on the voters' roll. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 17:41

310 views

2 June 2024

Ninety arrested over the course of 2024 elections

Location: News

Ninety arrested over the course of 2024 elections

Ninety people were arrested over the three days of elections earlier this week, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola said on Sunday.

On the first day of special votes on Monday, police registered 26 cases and arrested 24 people.

On the second day of special votes on Tuesday, police logged 32 cases, and nine people were detained.

On Election Day on Wednesday, 29 May, 37 cases were registered, leading to the arrest of 57 individuals.

In total, police arrested 90 people of which the majority have since been released on bail.

“Twenty-two are still inside as we speak and that is all about the matters of cases during the three days of the election,” explained Masemola.

The Commissioner was speaking at the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) media briefing on the third phase of its 2024 National and Provincial Elections operational activities.

The briefing came hours before Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) was set to release the results of the hotly contested elections.

READ | SA awaits election results

The Ministers of the Justice Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster said they had received an evaluation from the NATJOINTS regarding the security situation in the country since the elections.

“We are satisfied with how law enforcement agencies prevented and responded to incidents that would have otherwise tarnished the seventh General Elections in the country,” Police Minister Bheki Cele said at the briefing held in Pretoria.

He said the NATJOINTS also briefed the Ministers of the Security Cluster on their preparedness to assure the safety and security of the country in the post-election phase.

The security cluster stands ready to deal with any instability ahead of the declaration of the election results in Midrand this evening. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 16:23

69 views

2 June 2024

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

206 views

1 June 2024

IEC receives 579 objections

Location: News

IEC receives 579 objections

Electoral Commission (IEC) Chairperson Mosotho Moepya says the commission has received 579 objections.

At a media briefing at the national Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand late on Saturday evening, the Chairperson said he had promised to keep the media and citizens updated on the processing of results in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

He said South Africans were anxious for the commission to complete its work and announce the final outcomes.

Moepya said there were 579 objections which the commission was dealing with and that this might increase.

He explained that the leaderboard at the ROC will “go back and forth” as the commission considers these objections.

“As we consider objections before us, there will be those that require or will implicate the reopening of edit windows for results to be corrected. An edit window is a facility that allows the commission to effect corrections where there are discrepancies.”

There are 10 window edits that have been authorised, which are opportunities to be able to align slips with captured results. Moepya said these had been dealt with.

The general themes of objections considered thus far include:

- Where results processes were not completed when objections were filed with the IEC.

- Where third parties report being informed by individuals that they voted for a specific party but this is not reflecting.

- Allegations under oath that the complainants’ vote did not reflect at a particular station but the IEC found that there was basis to investigate.

- People asking about seat allocations and what are the considerations.

- People raising matters of the conduct of a party, party agents, party supporters during the special votes and on Voting Day itself.

“We will work through everything before us carefully and thoroughly,” said Moepya.

The Chairperson reassured citizens that it will act without fear and without favour.

“We have a long night ahead of us as we seek to bring finality to these matters.”

He was confident that the IEC would be ready to announce the results on Sunday.

The Constitution provides that the IEC declare the outcome of an election as soon as possible after elections. “We have to abide by that provision, among others,” said Moepya. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 22:46

192 views

1 June 2024

President expected to attend election results announcement

Location: News

President expected to attend election results announcement

President Cyril Ramaphosa will participate in the Electoral Commission’s (IEC) announcement ceremony of the final results of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections on Sunday.

According to a statement issued by the Presidency, proceedings will start at 05:20pm at the National Results Operations Centre (ROC) at Gallagher Estate, Midrand.

South Africans cast their votes on Wednesday, 29 May 2024, in the seventh democratic National and Provincial Elections since the attainment of the right of all citizens to elect a government of their choice.

The elections were preceded by special voting days on 27 and 28 May 2024, as well as voting abroad.

The elections implemented the Electoral Amendment Act, which became law in June 2023, expanding the pool of contest for the National and Provincial Elections to independent candidates.

“President Ramaphosa will deliver an address as part of the results ceremony,” the Presidency said.

Meanwhile, the commission will at 8:30pm hold a media briefing on the finalisation of results and updates on objections received. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 20:00

1068 views

1 June 2024

Election results system remains functional and uncompromised, says IEC Chair

Location: News

Election results system remains functional and uncompromised, says IEC Chair

The election results management system remains functional and uncompromised as the collation of votes process nears completion at the national Results Operations Centre in Midrand.

This is according to Electoral Commission (IEC) Chairperson Mosotho Moepya, who briefed media on Saturday afternoon.

South Africa took to the polls on Wednesday in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

“The results management process, anywhere in the world in any election, is the most sensitive part of election management,” IEC Chairperson said, calling on electoral stakeholders to remain confident in the integrity of the results management process.

Moepya said the results management process used in the elections was developed in-house and was not a shelf-based product.

“It was developed with specific compliance to our electoral legislation, particularly the Electoral Act.

“We emphasise that it is a system that takes into account the amendments made in the law where the Electoral Commission has engaged service providers in the electoral process. These service providers were procured openly and the award of their services was publicly published,” he told the journalists at the ROC.

According to Moepya, the result systems used in this election were specifically developed and tested.

The IEC also employed the services of professional auditors, Deloitte & Touche South Africa, who then reviewed the system.

“Once Deloitte & Touche had audited the systems and assured us that indeed they do what they're designed to do, that process was open to contestants in the national Political Liaison Committees (PLC). We have a history of doing so. We did not move away from that rich history,” he said.

He said the commission was pleased to indicate that the results systems have remained functional and uncompromised throughout the results compilation process.

The Chairperson said the technical fault with the results’ leaderboards on Friday was “regrettable”.

“It had nothing to do with the tampering or otherwise of the results management systems. It was a technical glitch that was experienced momentarily and it has been resolved.”

He called on all parties and citizens to continue to follow the results systems and bring any faults or errors to the commission’s attention.

“Because this is a transparent process and open to all…where you find faults or errors we were not too distant to look at those.”

IEC said they were currently processing the results and that the few that remain must also complete the audit process and every measure specified for purposes of transparency.

“Grant Thornton, the consortium of auditors we procured for this process, are aware that all of you want a credible outcome to this election.

“They are under no illusion that the job they have to do a solid job and that it’s important to you. It’s important to us and it’s important to the rest of the world.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 16:51

316 views

1 June 2024

Deadline to lodge objections with IEC extended until 6pm

Location: News

Deadline to lodge objections with IEC extended until 6pm

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has assured the citizens of South Africa that the election results management process has been compliant with electoral legislation.

This comes as some political parties have raised concerns about how votes are being handled.

“The commission wishes to assure this nation and everyone else that is following our elections that indeed we continue to place priority on the finalisation of this result in a transparent and orderly manner,” said IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya.

Moepya said they have engaged with the Party Liaison Committees (PLCs) and that the IEC has agreed to a request to look at the objections that have been filed late.

This comes after some parties claimed there were several result discrepancies in some districts across the country.

“I’m pleased to indicate that the commission has agreed to that request. Because there is a lot of goodwill that must be shown throughout this election compilation process, we have agreed that the process will be continued until 18:00 this afternoon.”

The deadline for public and political parties to lodge objections and disputes had officially closed yesterday.

Speaking at the national Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand, the Chairperson said the IEC welcomed the constructive way of allowing political parties and independent candidates to bring their deep-felt concerns to the commission.

“This is very important in an electoral contest,” he stressed.

Moepya reiterated that every objection raised will be considered.

“We are not going to be technical. We are going to look at the issues that are brought before us and we are going to consider them in the process of assuring the integrity of these elections.”

Where the commission finds “materiality” through the results process, the Chairperson promised that the IEC would apply appropriate remedies, which in some instances may include specific recounts.

“We are not going to rush; we are not going to overlook anything. We are going to walk as we look at every area of the work that is before us,” he promised. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 16:02

4 views

1 June 2024

Vote counting, validation nears completion

Location: News

Vote counting, validation nears completion

South Africa is inching closer to capturing and validating 100% of the votes cast in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

At 12:51pm on Saturday, vote counting, and validation stood at 98,91 % with 23 028 of 23 292 voting districts completed nationally.

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

According to the Election Commission’s (IEC) Results Dashboard, the ANC is in the lead with 40.29 of the vote followed by the DA at 21.64% and MK Party at 14.70%

In Limpopo, 3 199 of 3 216 voting districts completed. This means that 99.47% of vote counting has been completed. The ANC is in the lead in that province at 74.27% followed by the EFF at 12.92% and the DA at 6.09%.

The North West is at 98.56% with 1 713 of 1 738 voting districts (VDs) completed. In this province the ANC at 58.95% followed by the EFF at 16.51% and DA at 13.02%.

Mpumalanga is at 98.4% with 1 782 of 1 811 VDs completed. The ANC is leading with 51.75% of the vote followed by the MK Party at 17.40% and EFF at 12.70%.

KwaZulu-Natal is at 99.58% complete with 4 953 of 4 974 voting districts completed.

The MK Party is in the lead with 45.93% of the vote followed by the ANC at 17.61% and IFP at 16.26%.

Vote counting and validation in the Free State is complete at 100% with all of the 1 586 of 1 586 VDs completed.

The ANC is in the lead in the province at 52.88% followed by the DA at 21.31% and EFF at 13.09%.

The Eastern Cape is at 98.5% with 4 794 of 4 867 voting districts completed. The ANC has 63.22% of the vote followed by the DA at 13.92% and EFF at 10.08%.

The Western Cape is at 97.68% with 1 534 of 1 572 VDs completed. The DA is leading at 53.23% followed by the ANC at 21.19 and PA at 7.43%.

Counting in the Northern Cape is complete with 730 of 730 VDs completed. The ANC is in the lead with 49.30% of the votes followed by the DA at 21.22% and EFF at 12.89%.

Gauteng is at 94.46% with 2 642 of 2 797 voting districts completed. The ANC is in the lead with 36.31% of the vote followed by the DA at 26.97% and EFF at 12.46%. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 12:57

4049 views

1 June 2024

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

183 views

1 June 2024

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

14551 views

1 June 2024

Government appeals for patience as results capturing underway

Location: News

Government appeals for patience as results capturing underway

Government has appealed to the public to remain calm as the counting and verification of votes by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) in the National and Provincial Elections is underway.

“Citizens are encouraged to remain calm as this process unfolds. Vote counting is a rigorous process with various checks and balances by the IEC,” Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General (ADG), Nomonde Mnukwa, said on Thursday.

She said the length of the process depends on a range of factors including the number of votes cast and number of political parties contesting the ballot.

“The IEC is being transparent in the manner in which the results are being captured and verified to ensure the integrity of the electoral processes is not compromised. The results are also audited by independent auditors and then released on the results system for political parties, observers and the media.

“Parties themselves can verify the captured results against their copy of the original results slip to ensure accuracy. Objections can be directed to the Electoral Commission in terms of Section 55 of Electoral Act and decisions of commission can be appealed at the Electoral Court,” the ADG said.

By law, the election results must be declared within seven days after an election. The official election results will be announced by the IEC and this period ends on 5 June 2024.

“Government reminds South Africans that the IEC is the only institution legally mandated to announce the election results. No other institution, analyst, political party or commentator has the legal directive to communicate the final outcome.

“We call on all stakeholders to exercise caution in prematurely proclaiming the results. The IEC declaration of results is a statutorily requirement that formally ends the election. The process will then shift to the National Assembly,” Mnukwa said.

Following the declaration of election results, members for the National Assembly are designated by the Electoral Commission, and the lists are handed by the commission to the Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, who then hands them over to Parliament through the Secretary of Parliament.

“Before Members of the National Assembly perform their functions in the Assembly, they must swear or affirm faithfulness to the Republic and obedience to the Constitution, in accordance with Schedule 2 to the Constitution.

“The President of the Republic is the last to be elected by the House because the Assembly must be duly constituted first in order to exercise its power to elect the President. The Chief Justice also presides over the election of the President,” the ADG said.

The election of the President, who is chosen among the Members of the Assembly, is conducted by the Chief Justice of the Republic.

“Our role as active citizens does not end with voting; we are called to work together to move our nation forward. As a young democracy we have come a long way in our 30 years of freedom and democracy, and government remains committed to working together with all citizens to build a better tomorrow for all,” she said.

Mnukwa said South Africa’s seventh democratic general elections are an affirmation of the maturity and strength of the country’s democracy.

“It signifies the vibrant commitment of the people to advancing our freedom and democracy. The citizens have honoured their civic responsibility to make their voices heard by freely voting for the party or candidate that best represents their interests and aspirations for our country,” the ADG said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 09:29

662 views

1 June 2024

Appeal for ballot box to be returned

Location: News

Appeal for ballot box to be returned

The Electoral Commission (IEC) has appealed to the citizens in and around uMhlathuze Ward 14, in KwaZulu-Natal, to be on the lookout for an IEC branded ballot box, which went missing in transit from the voting station at Matamzana Dube School to the municipal electoral office for storage.

“The ballots in the box have been counted, reconciled, and validated. The Electoral Commission is required, by law, to store ballots cast in general elections for a period of six months.

“Furthermore, the IEC appeals to anyone who finds the ballot box to return it to us,” said the commission said in a statement.

The IEC reminded South Africans that anyone found to be in possession of ballots was liable to criminal prosecution. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 09:58

538 views

1 June 2024

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

11931 views

31 May 2024

Safety operations to continue throughout SA

Location: News

Safety operations to continue throughout SA

Minister of Police Bheki Cele has reiterated that police operations will continue until after the elections to ensure that citizens are safe.

Addressing members of the media at the Electoral Commission’s Results Operations Centre on Friday, the Minister said safety operations for the election period will end between 24 hours and 48 hours after the announcement of the election results.

“We pulled all our resources together… National Treasury has provided a budget for transportation and accommodation of law enforcement officials and overtime payments. We have deployed more than 17 000 police officers from various provinces to KwaZulu-Natal to ensure the elections take place in a safe and secure environment,” Cele said in Midrand at the National Results Operations Centre (ROC).

South Africans went to the polls on Wednesday to cast their votes in the 2024 General Elections, which are stated to be the most contested in the history of the country.

With reports of post-election violence doing the rounds, the Minister assured citizens that authorities are on high alert to deal with any threats.

The Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster has been implementing coordinated and intelligence-led operations both pre- and during the elections, where multi-departmental teams work together to ensure that all South Africans are safe.

Coordination is managed by National and Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures of the JCPS Cluster and the Electoral Commission (IEC).

The Minister said these plans will continue post elections.

Further to this, interdepartmental priority committees were established in 2023 at both national and provincial level to look at safety and security planning.

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure did a thorough threat and crime pattern analysis which informed a security plan which ensures that “nothing is left to chance”.

The national security plan was approved by the various Ministers of the JCPS Cluster. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 16:11

441 views

31 May 2024

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

444 views

31 May 2024

HSRC survey finds trust in IEC by voters was high

Location: News

HSRC survey finds trust in IEC by voters was high

A Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) survey has found that trust in the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) was high among voters, as millions cast their vote in the National and Provincial Elections (NPE) on Wednesday, 29 May.

This is according to the HSRC’s preliminary findings on the survey conducted on Election Day, as South Africans voted, marking 30 years since the historic first democratic elections in 1994.

The HSRC released its preliminary findings at the IEC national Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand on Friday.

In the Election Satisfaction Survey (ESS), voters were asked questions about the election process, including whether the 2024 NPE were free and fair.

The survey aimed to establish the opinions and perceptions of voters and their electoral experience.

WATCH | HSRC media briefing

The research sampled 300 voting stations selected countrywide, proportional to race, geographic type and the number of voting stations in each province.

“Trust in the Electoral Commission was high and almost all voters felt that they were safe to cast their ballot in secrecy,” the survey found.

According to the HSRC’s Dr Benjamin Roberts, trust in the country’s election management body is well in the 80% rate.

“The trust in the commission remains dominant… Amongst the general public, trust in the commission has been declining, as it has in all core political institutions over the last decade and a half, although the IEC remains among the trusted institutions in the country.

“But obviously, the voting public trust is much higher.”

Roberts believes that this is predominantly because those who had a positive experience leaving the aspect of the queuing time translates to the validation of the institution.

“The other reason is that for many South Africans, the predominant response to unhappiness with the function of the political system is the abstention and not electoral turnout. We’re finding increasing polarisation of happier voters and discontent and abstinence. That’s what’s probably driving the positive evaluations,” said Roberts.

Meanwhile, results indicated that voters overwhelmingly believed the 2024 NPE were free and fair and positively rated the conduct of officials at voting stations.

“Almost all voters felt that they were safe to cast their ballot in secrecy,” said Roberts.

The majority of voters also felt that the IEC adequately considered the needs of vulnerable groups, including the elderly and people with disabilities.

However, the finding showed that queuing times at voting stations increased relative to more recent elections, which had a bearing on electoral evaluations.

In addition, most voters were pleased with the ballot papers, with 58% indicating they were “very satisfied” and 35% told researchers they were “satisfied”.

However, 38% wanted to improve the ballot paper for future elections.

In addition, fewer people believe that their vote counts than those who believe they must vote.

Coercion and availability of information

Shifting focus to coercion, 12% reported experiencing someone trying to force them to vote for a certain political party or candidate, while nine percent said it happened before Election Day.

Four percent said they were forced by party agents and four percent by friends and family.

“Of those reporting coercion, 73% reported that it had no bearing on electoral choice, 25% said it did and two percent uncertain. This translates into three percent of all voters who changed their vote,” Roberts said.

On the level of information, roughly 13% stated that they had far too little information and 10% said they had too little information about the voting procedures.

Meanwhile, 42% said that the IEC website was “very useful” in providing information and education and 23% said “somewhat useful”.

According to the survey, 52% said that the IEC voter education campaigns were “very useful” in providing information and education and 28% said “somewhat useful”. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 16:34

241 views

31 May 2024

IEC continues vote capturing

Location: News

IEC continues vote capturing

The Electoral Commission is pulling all the stops to ensure the finalisation of the capturing and auditing of results for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, and remains on course to complete the process timeously.

Briefing media at the National Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand on Friday, the Commission’s Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo, reiterated that counting at all voting stations has been completed, and that the Commission has all the results at its local offices.

“The process underway is to capture results on our system for tallying and seat allocation. So far, a total of 71.76 [percentage of] results have been captured,” Mamabolo explained.

The CEO reminded South Africans that the ballots are counted at the voting stations where they are cast.

WATCH | IEC media briefing

“At all times, this is done in the presence of political party agents, independent candidate agents and observers, who monitor the entire counting and results process.

“The Commission regrets the incident this morning when the leader boards at the results operation centres and our website could not display the results. We wish to emphasise that our system did not crash and no data was compromised.

“The Commission went into the elections with a full IT plan, which includes back-up and recovery, in case it is needed. This situation has not arisen,” Mamabolo said.

READ | IEC's results dashboard restored

Mamabolo said the incident involved the activation of a "necessary control" not to display to leader boards, which is a feature of the result system.

“Result capturing and other result collation activities proceeded without interruption,” he said.

Meanwhile, progress relating to the capturing of the results, per province, is as follows (as at the time of the media briefing at 4pm):

Eastern Cape is at 92.13%, with 4485 of 4 868 voting districts completed.
Free State is at 95.52%, with 1 515 of 1 586 voting districts completed.
Gauteng is at 75.33%, with 2 107 of 2 797 voting districts completed.
KwaZulu-Natal is at 75.37%, with 3 749 of 4 974 voting districts completed.
Mpumalanga is at 91.94%, with 1 665 of 1 811 voting districts completed.
Northern Cape is at 100%, with 730 of 730 voting districtss completed.
Limpopo is at 80.78%, with 2 598 of 3 216 voting districts completed.
North West is at 88.61%, with 1 540 of 1 738 voting districts completed.
Western Cape is at 88.99%, with 1 399 of 1 572 voting districts completed.

- SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 16:58

364 views

31 May 2024

Law enforcement in North West saluted for ensuring election safety

Location: News

Law enforcement in North West saluted for ensuring election safety

The North West Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) has thanked law enforcement officials in the province for ensuring that the National and Provincial Elections were held without major incident in that province.

Election Day for South Africans was on Wednesday, with special votes conducted on Monday and Tuesday.

“It is now common cause that the elections in the province were without any major or significant security breaches, and this is highly due to the command, management, commitment, dedication and support of all the JOINTS departments, the IEC, communities and civil society in the province.

“The joint command of the PROVJOINTS… would like to express its sincerest appreciation to all the men and women of different law enforcement agencies and different entities, who heeded the call of duty by working tirelessly and diligently to make sure that the 2024 epoch making elections were held in a safe and secure, peaceful and conducive environment.

“The dedication, discipline, cooperation and commitment displayed by all is testament to the spirit of patriotism and further enhanced the image of South Africa internationally, given the fact that they eyes of the world were on this year’s elections,” the PROVJOINTS said in a statement.

It stated that the successful holding of peaceful elections was due to “months and weeks of detailed and integrated planning”.

The PROVJOINTS explained that it, together with the IEC, took into account many factors including budgetary and cost containment constraints without jeopardising and compromising the safety, security and credibility for all stakeholders including the public.

“The PROVJOINTS, which was entrusted with the mammoth task and responsibility of securing the entire process, was for the first time faced with an unprecedented high number of political parties; more than thirty and three different ballot papers and the first time use of Voter Management Devices (VMDs) by the IEC, in addition to managing the stability situation in the Province.

“Despite the uncertainty and threats of disruptions of elections, the PROVJOINTS managed to deliver on its assurance to the IEC and all the people of North West that elections will be held in a safe, secure and conducive environment,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 17:23

85 views

31 May 2024

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

2337 views

31 May 2024

IEC’s results dashboard restored

Location: News

IEC's results dashboard restored

The Electoral Commission (IEC) has apologised to voters and the media who were unable to view results in the National and Provincial Elections for almost two hours on Friday morning.

The leaderboards at the Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand and the online results dashboard are currently back up and running.

“The Electoral Commission confirms that it has experienced interruption in the replication of data from its national data centre and the various Results Operation Centres.

“The data in the data centre remains intact and the results have not been compromised. All services have since been restored and the leaderboard is working normal,” said the commission.

It said the processing of results is continuing and unaffected.

The commission has completed 54.89 percent of the results as at 9am on Friday.

Access the live results at https://results.elections.org.za/dashboards/npe/. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 08:57

834 views