Voters will be safe in Philippi, say community leaders and police
No repeat of last November’s disruption of registration process
Voting
No ID, no vote: Home Affairs fails victims of Cape Town shack fire
Home Affairs says the City of Cape Town must send a list of victims but the City says it’s already done so
Northern Cape communities urged to work with police to ensure safe elections
Northern Cape communities urged to work with police to ensure safe elections
Law enforcement in the Northern Cape has called on communities to work with them to ensure that the National and Provincial Elections -- to be held this week -- are safe and secure.
In a statement, the Northern Cape Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS), said from their side, law enforcement has done all it can to ensure they are ready for Election Day on Wednesday.
“All the security measures and plans that have been put in place will ensure that the election process in the Northern Cape will proceed without any incidents of crime and disruptions. We assure maximum deployments to ensure the successful execution of the operational plan.
“As the PROVJOINTS, we are satisfied with the contingency plans put in place and reassure the inhabitants of the Northern Cape that they can expect a safe and peaceful election.
“However, while measures are in place, the ultimate responsibility of ensuring a safe and conducive environment lies with every citizen of the province, which requires sound partnerships in order to create a harmonious backdrop of mutual respect as we are heading to the voting polls,” the statement read.
Furthermore, potential threats of disruptions are being monitored.
“Threats identified, such as community protests are already being attended to and those that are found to be in contravention of the law are being dealt with. Our Public Order Police units (POPS) are on the ground and ready to prevent and combat such incidents.
“We take this opportunity to remind our communities that the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa provides that every resident is free to make political choices, which includes the right to participate in the activities of political parties and to campaign for such parties,” the statement said.
Communities are also warned not to vandalise, deface or remove political party posters and placards, as this is against the law.
Citizens are also warned not to spread fake news or incite violence.
“Any person found to be tampering with posters will be arrested and charged with contravention of the Electoral Act 73 of 1998, which prohibits the unlawful removal and defacing of posters published by a political party.
“We also condemn the spreading of fake news, unverified information, rumours or threats on social media platforms that seek to cause unnecessary panic and confusion and in some instances, incite possible violence. Those found to be sharing inflammatory messages and inciting violence will be charged accordingly,” read the statement.
The Northern Cape PROVJOINTS said although ensuring a “safe and secure election process” is a priority, due attention is also paid to normal policing work.
“The main priority of SAPS, with the support of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster departments, is to ensure a safe and secure election process. We also assure the communities of the Northern Cape that normal crime prevention and policing operations are continuing prior, during and beyond the election period.
“Every law enforcement officer on the ground, has the responsibility and an obligation to execute their mandate, professionally, impartially and with integrity and within the confines of the laws of the country. Our members are reminded that we are a-political and will enforce the law without fear and favour,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 12:18
435 views
IEC: Successful first day of special votes
IEC: Successful first day of special votes
The Electoral Commission’s Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Masego Sheburi says he is pleased with the execution of the first day of special votes in the National and Provincial Elections.
Special votes took place on Monday and will continue on Tuesday for qualifying voters. Voting stations for special votes operate from 9am to 5pm.
“As of 2pm today, an estimated 201 794 voting station visits of special votes were processed in 22 626 service points,” Sheburi said, addressing the media at the National Results Operation Centre (ROC) in Midrand, on Monday afternoon.
He said over the two days of special votes, a total of 624 593 voters will be visited by 62 000 officials from the Electoral Commission accompanied by political party agents and observers where they are available.
“The Electoral Commission is happy with the turnout and urges South Africans to continue to go out in their numbers to vote on 29 May 2024,” Sheburi said.
He reminded all those who qualified for special votes that they will only be visited at the given address once.
“If the voter is not present at the given address, they will be able to cast their vote at the voting station where they are registered.
“The commission clarifies that in the instance where a voter has made two transactions, the last will override the first. This is done to protect the integrity of the elections and prevent voters from voting twice,” Sheburi said.
Owing to the commission’s good preparations, the majority of voting stations in the Eastern Cape were opened despite protests which were not related to the elections.
Of the 435 voting stations which experienced problems in the morning, only 107 remain closed due to the external factors. “The commission continues to work with stakeholders to have them open tomorrow,” he said.
Sheburi encouraged all those who applied to cast a special vote at their voting station to do so between the hours of 9am and 5pm.
“Voters are reminded that these are different from the voting hours of 7am to 9pm on Election Day. Voters are reminded to have their identity documents as a requirement for participation.
“After casting votes, the ballots must be inserted in an unmarked envelop which in turn will be inserted in a second envelope with details of the voter. The special voting process is subject to all the security and integrity protocols of normal voting including scrutiny by party agents and observers where present.
“Special votes will be reconciled against the voters’ roll and the list of approved special votes. Additional checks include the use of the double envelope system which allows us to still preserve the secrecy of the voters’ ballot,” Sheburi said.
All special votes collected will be stored securely overnight on 27 and 28 May and will be transported to voting stations on 29 May to be opened, reconciled and added to the ordinary ballots cast on Wednesday before counting begins.
Over 1.6 million South Africans have been approved to vote via special ballots.
With regard to the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, where a group of its supporters allegedly invaded an IEC storage facility and threatened an elections official over the weekend, the commission said it was dealing with the issue seriously.
At a media briefing on Sunday, the commission affirmed its readiness to facilitate the special votes ahead of the national Election Day on Wednesday.
The IEC has assured that the administration of special votes will occur in the presence of contestant representatives and observers where possible, although entry into homes will be at the homeowner’s discretion. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 17:44
388 views
Security intensified in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape
Security intensified in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape
Additional Public Order Policing (POP) members will be deployed to different parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Mthatha in the Eastern Cape to beef up the current law enforcement agencies’ deployments and intensify crime combatting efforts.
This was announced during a send-off parade for more than 700 POP members in Harrismith on Monday.
National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, addressed the parade and said the officers will add to the existing capacity of members currently deployed in these provinces to ensure that voting takes place in a safe and secure environment.
Masemola, in his address, gave the men and women in blue marching orders to ensure they prevent and combat any acts of criminality and protect the rights of South Africans to vote in a peaceful environment.
He said police have mobilised their maximum resources to combat the lawlessness in Mthatha, which includes the blocking of roads.
Police have meanwhile arrested five people who had attempted to block roads leading to the Mthatha Airport.
“We are sending you off to maintain law and order. No disruptions and acts of criminality should take place under your watch. We are sending you out there to protect the constitutional right of South Africans and the integrity of the election process,” said Masemola
The co-chair of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, also formed part of the parade.
She urged members to execute their duties within the ambit of the law. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 18:15
87 views
Government activities for the week 27 – 31 May 2024
Government activities for the week 27 - 31 May 2024
On Monday, 27 May, Minister of Social Development Lindiwe Zulu launches the Khuseleka One Stop Centre at the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children in Manenberg, Cape Town.
Also on Monday, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma launches the Demand-LED and job creation programme for persons with disabilities at the Coastlands Unhlanga Hotel and Convention Centre.
On 27 May, NSFAS briefs media on progress relating to the disbursement of student allowances at Tshedimosetso House, Hatfield, Pretoria, starting at 11am.
On Monday, Minister of Health Joe Phaahla casts his special vote in his home village of Ga-Phaahla, Limpopo.
Monday is Day 1 of special voting in the National and Provincial Elections, from 9am to 5pm.
Tuesday, 28 May, is Day 2 of special voting in the National and Provincial Elections, from 9am to 5pm.
On Wednesday, 29 May, is Election Day, from 7am to 9pm.
Janine
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 12:29
51 views
Unite for free, fair and peaceful elections – President Ramaphosa
Unite for free, fair and peaceful elections - President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in his weekly newsletter, called on South Africans to unite for free, fair and peaceful elections.
The National and Provincial Elections are expected to be held on Wednesday with voting stations opening at 7am and closing at 9pm.
Some 27 million eligible South Africans have been registered to vote in this year’s elections.
“Holding free, fair and peaceful elections is a barometer of the good health of our democracy. As we cast our votes on Wednesday, let us, in the words of our Constitution, 'honour those who suffered for justice and freedom in our land, respect those who have worked to build and develop our country, and believe that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity'.”
“Let us hold another election that is peaceful, that is free, that is fair and that is a credit to all the elections we have held since 1994. Let it be that the ultimate winner of this election is South Africa, our democracy, and you, the South African people,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President highlighted that since the dawn of democracy, elections have been held “without major incident” and expressed confidence that this year’s elections will also take place in the same vein.
“Once again, we have every confidence that this election will take place under conditions of peace, safety and tolerance, and that it will be free and fair.
“The integrity of our elections is testament to the high regard in which South Africans hold their hard-won right to vote. It is an affirmation that no matter what our political differences are, when it comes to safeguarding our democracy, we are prepared to put these differences aside for the common good,” President Ramaphosa said.
A look back
President Ramaphosa recalled how South Africa “was on the brink” on the eve of the first democratic elections in 1994 with “state-sponsored violence and the threat of a right-wing insurrection” contributing to a “sense of fear and uncertainty”.
“One newspaper carried a story at the time titled “South Africa hoarding as fear rises”. It described long supermarket queues of people stocking up on tinned foods, a rush to attend emigration seminars, panicked currency exchanges, and fearful callers to radio stations about sabotage of power plants and water supplies.
“We recall the courage of the political leadership at the time and their efforts to quell tensions. We recall the role of the leadership of the Inkatha Freedom Party, the African National Congress and the National Party in signing a memorandum of agreement for reconciliation and peace just three days before the election.
“We recall these events to remind ourselves of what is required of us all as we head to the polls on Wednesday. We are required to continue to honour the sacrifices of our forebears by exercising their right to vote and to do so peacefully. We are required to respect the rights of others regardless of who they are voting for, and regardless of whether they are voting or not,” he said.
Despite all the doomsday fears at that time, the President said, “none of these fears materialised”.
“As South Africans we have rejected the politics of fear time and again, and we will continue to do so.
“For the past thirty years we have chosen the path of peace over violence, of reconciliation over hate, and of unity over divisions of race, ethnicity or tribe. The stability and integrity of our electoral system bears witness to this,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 10:05
71 views
President Ramaphosa wishes IEC well ahead of elections
President Ramaphosa wishes IEC well ahead of elections
President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) well ahead of the National and Provincial Elections due to be held this week.
Special votes are to be administered on Monday and Tuesday with the general elections to be held on Wednesday.
Addressing the nation in a televised broadcast on Sunday evening, the President applauded the commission for its work in the run up to the elections.
“As a country, we have once again witnessed the capabilities of the IEC – in the successful voter registration weekends, in the registration of parties and candidates, in the preparation of ballot papers, in the organisation of overseas voting, and in the diligent application of our electoral laws.
“We convey our thanks and best wishes to the IEC commissioners, to the IEC staff and to the thousands of election workers as they deliver on this most important responsibility in the coming days,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President remarked that the defining feature of South Africa’s elections since the dawn of democracy in 1994 “has been their integrity…made possible not only by the work and conduct of the IEC, but also by the presence of party agents and independent observers”.
“The involvement of party agents gives people confidence that there is effective oversight of all aspects of the electoral process.
“Through the presence of local and international observers we are able to satisfy ourselves that our elections conform not only to our own laws, but also to internationally-accepted standards of freeness and fairness.
“We thank all the party agents and the election observers for the work they are doing, and reiterate that they must be allowed to do their work without any hindrance,” he said.
WATCH I President Ramaphosa’s address
President Ramaphosa emphasised the history attached to the right for all eligible South Africans to make their mark.
This right was hard won by liberation heroes and anti-apartheid activists who fought for South Africa’s democracy against a brutal apartheid state.
“This will be the seventh time that South Africans of all races, from all walks of life, from all corners of our country, will go to vote for national and provincial government. We will once again assert the fundamental principle, articulated in the Freedom Charter, that no government can justly claim authority unless it is based on the will of all the people. In the days to come, we will be doing much more than exercising our Constitutional right to vote,” said the President.
He said citizens will be determining the direction that the country takes.
“I call upon all South Africans to go cast their votes. We are a diverse people, but a united nation. Let us be united in our commitment to our democracy,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 05/26/2024 - 19:10
0 views
IEC ready to administer special votes
IEC ready to administer special votes
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has declared that it is ready to administer the special votes expected to be cast tomorrow and Tuesday, ahead of Election Day on Wednesday.
Special votes for those South Africans out of country have already been cast.
Domestic special votes are for those who are either infirm or have impaired mobility who will be visited by the IEC at their or home or place of confinement and also for those who wish to cast their vote early as they may not be able to access their voting station on general Election Day on 29 May 2024.
At a media briefing on Sunday, IEC Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, Masego Sheburi, said more than 1.6 million South Africans have been approved to vote during the special votes.
Some 624 593 voters are expected be visited by IEC staff with the rest expected to visit their voting stations.
“We are encouraged by the number of special votes received which indicates the enthusiasm with which the South African population has for these elections,” he said.
Special votes will be administered in the presence of representatives of contestants and observers where those are available. However, people are only allowed into homes at the direction of the homeowner.
“Voters…are reminded to have their identity documents handy in order to confirm their participation in these elections. After a voter casts their ballot, they will be handed two envelopes. They insert their marked ballots into an unmarked envelope, which in turn is inserted into a bigger envelope which has the details of the voter.
“The purpose of the envelopes is to ensure that we can verify that only persons who have been approved to vote by special vote have voted but also to ensure the secrecy of the vote by delinking the vote from the voter,” he said.
WATCH I IEC briefs media on readiness for special votes
For those who will be going to voting stations, those stations will be open between 9am and 5pm with only those approved for special votes allowed to make their mark.
Following the two days of special voting, the ballots still within in their double envelopes, will be transported for safe storage until 29 May 2024 where they will be verified and reintroduced for counting.
Persons with disabilities
Sheburi said the commission has prepared for persons with disabilities to “vote in conditions of relative dignity and without disclosing their choice to anyone”.
“Working together with the South African National Council for the Blind [SANCB], we have developed a voting aid, the Universal Ballot Template for persons who can read braille they can be able to vote without disclosing their choice of candidate or party.
“For those with unsteady hand, they will be able to use the Universal Ballot Template to also make their mark without disclosing their choice or relying on companions for assistance.
“We call on South Africans to come out in numbers and exercise their democratic right to vote. We further continue our call to citizens, media members, and political party leaders to set a good example and foster an electoral environment based on trust, integrity, and respect for all,” Sheburi said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 05/26/2024 - 16:15
291 views
IEC dismisses vote rigging allegations, condemns threats to officials
IEC dismisses vote rigging allegations, condemns threats to officials
The Electoral Commission (IEC) has dismissed allegations of vote rigging made against its offices in KwaZulu-Natal and has condemned threats made against its officials.
This comes days before the National and Provincial Elections are due to be held on 29 May, with special votes expected to be administered on Monday and Tuesday.
On allegations of vote rigging, the commission noted “with great concern” videos circulating related to the allegations at its storage sites in Chesterville and Hammersdale in the province.
“We wish to clarify that the videos depict our planned logistical arrangements and storage of election materials as we prepare for the first day of special voting on 27 May 2024. These are legitimate and authorised arrangements for the distribution of ballot papers and other bulk material.
“The planned security measures were that the trucks distributing ballot papers are escorted by SAPS to the local storage site. These storage sites will then be guarded on a 24-hours basis. This arrangement would ensure that the storage sites are protected against unauthorised entry, burglary, and tempering with election materials and ensure detailed control and recording of all items in storage,” the commission said in a statement.
It further warned that no members of political parties will be allowed entry into any storage facility.
“No party will be allowed to gain entry into the warehouse premises of the commission. We instruct the leadership of MK party to immediately leave the warehouse as the commission urgently needs to finalise the distribution of election material,” the statement read.
Threats to commission officials
The IEC said that in the same province, an official was “was woken at home in the middle of the night about bulk material stored at the Baptist Church voting station in Chesterville”.
“Bulk material is voting booths, voting station signage/banners and new unfolded ballot boxes. This bulk electoral material was taken to Cato Manor police station in eThekwini, in KwaZulu Natal.
“It is part of the logistical plan for the commission to deliver bulk material to voting stations ahead of Election Day. This is meant to ensure that voting stations open on time as only security material such as ballot papers will be delivered on the day of voting,” the commission said.
Furthermore, it strongly condemned any threats towards its staff members.
“No party nor its representatives have authority to gain access to private homes of electoral staff. Worse still no party nor its representatives may take control of election material without being authorised.
“We want to assure the public that additional measures have been implemented to secure these various storage sites across the country. We confirm that the commission has possession of all election materials shown in these videos.
“This electoral material is being prepared for distribution to voting stations in time for the special votes tomorrow, 27 May 2024.
“The commission is contemplating measures against the party and the individuals involved as such obstruction to election activities should not be tolerated. This conduct violates the Code of Conduct and other electoral prescripts,” the IEC said.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the nation this evening at 6pm. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 05/26/2024 - 13:01
68 views
Voters urged to familiarise themselves with three ballot papers
Voters urged to familiarise themselves with three ballot papers
As South Africa holds its seventh democratic elections this week, voters will for the first time receive three ballot papers instead of two ballots.
The Electoral Commission (IEC) has urged voters to carefully review and mark each of these three ballot papers before depositing them into the ballot box.
“Our appeal to voters is to remember that they can only put one mark on each ballot, more than one mark will result in a spoiled vote and not counted.
“The Universal Ballot Template (UBT), whose dimensions are benchmarked against the longest ballot paper will be available in all voting stations. The UBT can be used by blind and partially sighted people, low-vision users, people who are dyslexic, and people with motor and neuron conditions which do not allow for a steady hand,” IEC Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sy Mamabolo said.
South Africans will go to the polls on 29 May 2024 to vote for leaders in government for the seventh administration.
The 27.79 million registered voters will receive three ballot papers to elect candidates to represent them in the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures.
The use of the three ballots follows the amendment of the Electoral Act, which was signed into law in April 2023.
“This amendment revised the electoral system to allow independent candidates to contest in the regional (province-to-national) tier of the National Assembly and the Provincial Legislatures.
“Although the phenomenon of three ballots will be familiar to voters in various local municipalities, it will be new to voters in metropolitan areas and for the first time in general elections for national and provinces,” Mamabolo said.
WATCH I Three ballots explained
The three ballot papers are as follows:
- The national ballot: This ballot will consist of a list of political parties vying for seats for 200 seats in the National Assembly. This ballot will be used to vote for political parties. There are currently 52 parties who will be on this ballot and the configuration will be a dual column.
- The regional or province-to-national ballots: This will have political parties and independent candidates contesting for the seats reserved for each province in the National Assembly. Voters will use this ballot to elect a political party or an independent candidate to represent them in the National Assembly. The number of contestants range from 30 to 44 on regional ballots. The configuration of this ballot is single column.
- The provincial ballots: This ballot is unique to each province and includes parties and independent candidates competing for seats in each respective provincial legislature. This ballot will allow voters to choose either a political party or an independent candidate to represent them in provincial legislatures. The number of contestants range from 24 to 45 on the provincial legislatures ballots.
The commission said the design of the ballot papers will be underpinned by the following identifiers:
- Full registered name of the party
- The photograph of the registered party leader
- Registered abbreviated name of the party
- The registered emblem or symbol of the party
In respect of independent candidates, the ballot papers will have:
- The name of the independent
- The photograph bearing the face of the independent
- The word “INDEPENDENT”
There are a total of 400 contested seats in the National Assembly. The proportional representation compensatory 200 seats will be contested by political parties only and there is a dedicated ballot paper for this tier of the National Assembly.
“The remaining regional or province-to-national 200 seats will be contested by independent candidates and political parties. This tier of the National Assembly will also have a dedicated ballot paper. This means that National Assembly elections will be based on two ballot papers (national ballot and the newly introduced regional or province-to-national ballot).
“Therefore, in respect of the elections of the National Assembly voters may elect a preferred party on the national ballot and elect another preferred party or independent on the regional ballot. However, in respect of provincial elections, voters will elect a preferred party or independent candidate on a single provincial ballot,” the CEO said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 05/24/2024 - 14:23
311 views
Vote where you are registered
Vote where you are registered
Millions of South Africans are expected to cast their ballots in the 7th National and Provincial Elections on Election Day on Wednesday.
The Electoral Commission (IEC), which has successfully completed overseas voting, will from Monday start to service South Africans who have qualified for special votes. Special votes will take place on 27 and 28 May, from 9am to 5pm.
Election Day, which has been declared a public holiday, will take place on 29 May.
The Electoral Commission has reminded South Africans to cast their ballots to vote where they are registered.
“The commission takes this opportunity to remind voters that they can only vote at voting districts where they are registered. The only voters who may vote outside their voting districts on 29 May are those who have notified the commission, within the period 15 March to 17 May 2024 as stipulated in the Election Timetable, that they would be away from their designated districts and wished to change their voting location.
“According to Section 24 (a) of the Electoral Amendment Act, a voter may vote outside of the voting district where registered but needs to notify the Electoral Commission before Voting Day during the period specified in the Election Timetable,” said the commission in a statement.
Voters voting in the province where they are registered will receive three ballot papers - the national, regional and provincial ballot papers. However, if they vote outside their registered province, they will only be eligible to vote in the national ballot paper.
Voting on Election Day will take place from 7am until 9pm. The commission assured citizens that no eligible voter will be turned away and that every voter in a queue by 9pm will be assisted.
“The Electoral Commission reiterates the call on all voters to check where they are registered to vote, and to bring their identity documents with when voting.”
Voters can check their registration details and confirm the location of their correct voting stations ahead of Election Day by using the following channels:
- www.elections.org.za/pw/Voter/Voter-Information
- SMSing their ID number to 32810
- 0800 11 8000
- WhatsApp ‘Hi’ to 0600 88 0000
Voters who successfully applied to vote at another voting station must take the added step of checking their voting location at https://registertovote.elections.org.za/voter/section-24a/notitication/status or on the confirmation notification, as this information will not appear on their registration status.
“We encourage all 27.7 million registered voters to come out in their numbers and cast their ballots in these historic elections in the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s electoral democracy. Exercising your vote is your right and your civic duty,” said the IEC. - SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Sun, 05/26/2024 - 09:57
63 views
Pleasant weather conditions during elections week
Pleasant weather conditions during elections week
With South Africans going to the polls next week, weather conditions are expected to be sunny and cool over most parts of the country while many of the northern provinces can expect sunny and warm conditions.
“It is undoubtedly good news that no severe or extreme weather is anticipated in the lead up to, and including, Voting Day. It is also very encouraging that daytime weather conditions will remain pleasantly cool over the southern half of the country, while the northern provinces will be warm, but not particularly hot,” the South African Weather Service (SAWS) said on Thursday.
South Africans will be exercising their democratic right to vote next week Wednesday, 29 May 2024.
“The persistence of such mild, settled weather conditions is somewhat unusual for this time of year but will no doubt be welcomed by election officials as well as the public.
“Weather conditions in the period from Monday, 27 May to Wednesday, 29 May are likely to remain predominantly free of rain and clouds. Rainfall, if any, is expected to be light and very localised in nature,” the weather service said.
On Monday, 27 May 2024, the country could see a few light showers along the northern coast of KwaZulu-Natal, while some early morning fog and drizzle patches can be expected along the eastern escarpment areas of Mpumalanga and Limpopo on Tuesday, 28 May 2024.
“At this stage, Voting Day is expected to remain dry and rain-free. A cold front will indeed be moving closer to the Western Cape on Voting Day, however, current numeric weather prediction models (NWP) indicate that rainfall associated with the arrival of the cold front will only occur after Wednesday,” SAWS said.
The weather service has recommended that voters and election officials be cognisant of the outlook for predominantly sunny conditions for large parts of the country next week.
“Wide-brimmed hats, sunblock and sunglasses are therefore recommended, especially if voting queues result in voters standing in direct sunshine for extended periods. Moreover, it is a good idea to remember to drink water regularly, in order to avoid dehydration.
“It is also important to bear in mind that infants, small children as well as the elderly and infirm are highly prone to dehydration, especially when the weather is sunny, dry and warm, as will be the case on voting day, 29 May 2024,” SAWS said.
Next week’s weather in summary:
- Predicted weather conditions for Monday: Sunny and cool conditions are expected, but it will be warm in places over the northern areas of Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the Northern Cape, with isolated showers over the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
- Predicted weather conditions for Tuesday: Fine and cool conditions are expected, but it will be warm in places over the northern areas of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Northern Cape. There is a 30% chance of drizzle and showers expected along the escarpment of north-eastern areas.
- Predicted weather conditions for Wednesday: Warm in places over the northern areas of Limpopo, North West and Northern Cape, otherwise sunny and cool. It will be windy and gusty over the western interior, especially from mid-morning onwards. Blowing dust could locally reduce visibility over these areas and could also result in minor disruption and discomfort for voters at voting stations.
SAWS said it will continue to monitor any further weather developments and will issue subsequent warnings if any need arises. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 05/24/2024 - 12:31
280 views
CSIR to use tool to predict 2024 elections results
CSIR to use tool to predict 2024 elections results
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) announced it will once again be part of the South African elections, using its election prediction model for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
This model was first introduced by the CSIR during the 1999 General Elections and will also be used when South Africans go to the polls on 29 May 2024.
According to the institution, their election prediction model relies on two core principles, the analysis of voter behaviour patterns and the sequence in which voting results are announced on Election Day.
“When combined, these two principles enable the team to group voters or voting districts based on their past voting behaviour, utilising a statistical clustering method.
“When applied in previous elections, the model typically achieved a high degree of accuracy at a national level once approximately 5% of the results had been tallied.”
The CSIR explained that the predictions become more stable and accurate as more voting districts are counted and once all voting districts have been declared.
CSIR Chief Executive Officer, Dr Thulani Dlamini, clarified that the model was not a polling system, but a model that uses statistical and mathematical analysis to predict election outcomes.
“It showcases how statistical clustering and some mathematical algorithms can achieve good predictions from a small sample of results. The election prediction model operates based on reducing the bias resulting from the ‘non-randomness’ of the incoming results that arise from the order in which the results are received,” he added.
The predictive modelling capabilities also allow this to be tailor-made for other predictive analysis work.
As one of its kind in the continent, CSIR has the capability of assisting other countries that may require such a tool to support election transparency and engagement.
“The organisation possesses robust capabilities in mathematics and statistics, which are applied to deliver precise results and can be customised for various forms of predictive analysis and forecasting,” he added.
The CSIR, an entity of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, is one of the leading scientific and technology research, development and implementation organisations in Africa.
The CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research and technological innovation, as well as industrial and scientific development, to improve the quality of life of all South Africans. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 05/24/2024 - 14:49
198 views
Correctional Services ready for inmates to vote on Election Day
Correctional Services ready for inmates to vote on Election Day
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) says it is ready for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections to be conducted by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) next Wednesday.
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) says it is ready for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections to be conducted by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) next Wednesday.
According to the department, some 14 753 inmates at correctional facilities have registered to vote in the elections.
“DCS has been working with the IEC in ensuring that all logistical aspects of the voting process are meticulously planned and executed. The environment is thus conducive for the IEC to fulfil its mandate through the provision of ballot papers, secure voting booths and other necessary logistics at correctional facilities.
“Comprehensive voter education was also provided to inmates in order to ensure they are informed about their rights and the voting process,” the department said.
Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola said: “The measures we have put in place are designed to ensure that eligible inmates can exercise their right to vote in a secure and transparent manner. Hence, this initiative marks a significant step forward in ensuring that our democratic processes are inclusive and just.”
Section 24 B of the Electoral Act makes provision for prisoners to vote in an election for the National Assembly or a provincial legislature, a person who on Election Day is in prison and whose name appears on the voter’s roll for another district, is deemed for that Election Day to have been registered by his or her name having been entered on the voter’s roll for the voting district in which he or she is in prison.
Therefore, the department said, inmates registered before “admission to a correctional centre shall not be denied an opportunity to cast their votes”.
“The transfer and release or placement of inmates on the voting date will be managed in such a way that it does not impede their right to vote. Independent observers will be allowed to monitor the election process within correctional facilities as per the prescripts of the Independent Electoral Commission.
“Observation of the voting process by political parties will be limited to two representatives per political party. This is due to limited space, whilst taking into cognisance the security imperatives of correctional centres,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 05/24/2024 - 09:15
114 views
Universal Ballot Template widens access to democracy
Universal Ballot Template widens access to democracy
The Electoral Commission (IEC) says the Universal Ballot Template, a voting aid designed to empower persons with disabilities and special needs, will help this section of the population to exercise their democratic right independently and with the utmost secrecy.
This, according to the Commission, was developed in collaboration with the South African National Council for the Blind.
Speaking at the launch of the National Result Operation Centre (ROC) in Midrand on Wednesday, the Electoral Commission Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo, said on 27 and 28 May, the Commission will accept Special Votes from the 1 668 076 South Africans who were approved for this category of votes.
“The Commission will visit 624 593 voters at their homes or places of confinement, and 1 043 483 will be assisted at voting stations where they are registered,” he said.
Mamabolo said in addition to trained staff, agents from political parties and independent candidates, as well as accredited observers will be present when the special votes are cast.
“As we embark on this momentous journey, we find inspiration in the unwavering commitment of our staff, who will be present at all 23 303 voting stations, diligently attending to the needs of those unable to visit the stations, ensuring a seamless and inclusive voting experience for all,” Mamabolo said.
Mamabolo said the appointment of 202 500 voting officials, including a new category of staff dedicated to enhancing the counting quality, underscores the Commission’s resolute dedication to upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
“The Commission takes immense pride in announcing the completion of ballot printing and delivery of over 90 million ballots meticulously prepared for this historic occasion.
“Voters will be presented with three ballot papers: The National Compensatory Ballot for political parties, the Provincial Ballot, and the Regional Ballot for parties and independent candidates. We remind all voters of the sacred principle, 'One ballot, One Mark'," Mamabolo said.
According to Mamabolo, provinces with the most approved special votes for both home visits and voting station visits are Gauteng (335 480), KwaZulu-Natal (320 010), Eastern Cape (286 059), Limpopo (159 800), Western Cape (137 558), North West (132 627), Mpumalanga (126,112), Free State (86,908), and Northern Cape (83,504).
“It is important to point out that in addition to our trained staff, agents from political parties and independent candidates, as well as accredited observers, will be present when the special votes are cast,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 05/23/2024 - 10:55
137 views
“Nerve centre” ready for capturing, auditing, collating elections results
"Nerve centre" ready for capturing, auditing, collating elections results
The National Result Operation Centre (ROC) for the 2024 national elections has been launched in Midrand.
The ROC, at Gallagher Estate in Midrand, will be the nerve centre for capturing, auditing, collating and announcing the election results next week after Election Day.
Speaking at the official launch of the results centre on Wednesday, the Electoral Commission (IEC) Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said it will serve as the “beating heart of the democratic process”, bringing together commission members, operational areas, representatives of political parties and independent candidates, observer missions and media representatives from across the globe.
There will also be ROCs across all the nine provinces, Mamabolo said.
He said it was an honour to welcome a record-breaking 160 organisations, collectively deploying over 5 000 observers from around the world to witness and validate the integrity of the commission’s electoral process.
“This includes esteemed international bodies such as the African Union, The Carter Centre Democracy Program, and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, alongside a legion of domestic observers committed to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability.”
He reminded all voters of the principle that governs the elections - a person votes at the voting station where they are registered.
“The only exception to this rule is for those who have duly notified the commission of their intention to vote outside their registered voting district,” he said.
With less than a week before Election Day, Mamabolo called on all South Africans, both at home and abroad, to participate in this defining moment for the nation.
Chairperson of the Electoral Commission Mosotho Moepya said the ROC was not merely a physical space but was a testament to the unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity in the electoral process.
“The ROC stands as a beacon of transparency and accountability, illuminating the path toward a future characterised by free and fair elections. Here, within the walls of what we affectionately call ‘The ROC’, South Africa's commitment to free and fair elections finds its stronghold,” Moepya said.
Moepya said the results centre would witness the announcement and certification of results in national, provincial, and local elections and that it symbolised the nation's steadfast dedication to democratic principles.
“I extend a warm welcome to representatives from all political parties and independent candidates participating in these elections.
“Your presence here underscores the collaborative effort required in the management of elections. Through the National Political Liaison Committee, we have engaged transparently at every stage of the electoral process, ensuring inclusivity and fairness,” he said.
Moepya said each voting station result undergoes rigorous audit authentication before being posted, ensuring accuracy and accountability.
“The capture and verification of results at each voting station, independent audits, and real-time accessibility of data to stakeholders exemplify our commitment to integrity,” he said.
Special Votes
On 27 May and 28 May, the commission will accept special votes from the 1 668 076 South Africans who were approved for this category of votes.
The commission will visit 624 593 voters at their homes or places of confinement and 1 043 483 will be assisted at voting stations where they are registered.
The province with the most approved special votes for both home visits and voting station visits is Gauteng with 335 480.
The rest are as follows: KwaZulu-Natal with 320 010, the Eastern Cape with 286 059, Limpopo with 159 800, the Western Cape with 137 558, North West with 132 627, Mpumalanga with 126 112, Free State with 86 908 and the Northern Cape with 83 504.
The ROC is supported by nine other provincial elections centres across the country. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 05/22/2024 - 21:33
141 views
Practising responsible citizenry
Practising responsible citizenry
Five months into 2024, and many a thing has happened, requiring us to sit down and catch our collective breath.
In the last five months, the country commemorated Human Rights and Freedom Months, experienced tragedy with the recent shooting of a five-year-old boy in a hijacking in Soshanguve as well as a deadly bus crash over the Easter holiday period.
Recently, the country was also on tenterhooks following the Victoria Street multi-storey George building collapse in the Western Cape, which claimed at least 33 lives.
Just as self-care Sundays are necessary to keep one’s wits about oneself, we need to do the same for our beloved country.
That oh so necessary routine of taking care of one’s skin, hair and reflecting on the week that was, accompanied by a delicious, nourishing meal, is the same kind of nurturing we ought to provide for the country on the southernmost tip of the African continent.
Reflection is a powerful tool that one can use to take stock of the goings-on in one’s life and with the country’s upcoming 2024 National and Provincial Elections, it is a tool that we can use to move the country forward.
The beautiful thing about reflection is that while it can bring back painful memories of the past which was dominated by segregation brought about by the then apartheid regime, it also affords the country time to reflect on pockets of excellence, including the provision of housing; equal education and social grants to assist the less fortunate in our country.
While government has provided clean water, sanitation and continues to provide electricity - and yes, it is intermittent at the best of times - it has not swept the challenges under the rug.
With us approaching the half-year mark – yes can you believe it? - we can start the second part of our journey across the sun having taken action that will guide the future direction of our country.
As responsible citizens who despite our country’s challenges of unemployment, crime and gender-based violence, among others, we have to cast our votes in South Africa’s seventh democratic elections on 29 May 2024.
And as responsible citizens, entrusted with the right to vote through the Constitution’s Bill of Rights, we ought to exercise that right.
Section 19 (3) of the Bill of Rights makes provision to vote in elections and to do so in secret, while also allowing adult citizens to stand for public office and, if elected, to hold office.
This is probably the best and most important self-care routine we cannot afford to miss as a country.
And while others may still be undecided as to who to vote for, the hourglass has not run out of sand yet. You can still make up your mind on who to vote for.
This year’s elections are believed to be the most contested in our history as a democratic dispensation and you don’t want to suffer from a bout of the FOMO (fear of missing out) post the elections that will see the participation of independent candidates for the very first time.
Voting is not a pointless exercise. Many died for the privilege we enjoy today. Additionally, the World Economic Forum reported that 2024 is a historic election with elections being held in 50 countries around the world, including the United States.
Naysayers may say that project democracy has failed. In his Freedom Day speech commemorating 30 years of South Africa’s freedom and democracy, President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that our democracy is young, highlighting that “most of the world’s most established democracies are over a hundred years old.”
Nobody can say that democracy is perfect at 100 years old, no more so than at 30 years. What we’ve seen over the last three decades as citizens is the growth of a nation that is not without its faults.
We all have faults and what matters most is that we still have the ability to recalibrate and make the necessary changes.
While there are many important issues that rile us up, including crime and corruption, that may fuel voter apathy, we cannot give up on our country.
At a recent District Development Model Presidential Imbizo in the Northern Cape, the President called on citizens not to throw in the towel as government is committed to delivering services and addressing challenges.
“We don’t want you, our people, to lose hope,” he said.
We should not underestimate the power of a single vote if all 27.79 million of the country’s registered voters make their voices heard as we go to the polls on 29 May 2024. It’s a date.
Neo Semono is a Features Editor at SAnews.gov.za.
Matona
Wed, 05/22/2024 - 10:58
223 views
Mashatile thanks South Africans living abroad for casting their votes
Mashatile thanks South Africans living abroad for casting their votes
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has expressed gratitude to all South Africans living abroad who turned out at voting stations to cast their ballots over the weekend.
The Deputy President was speaking at the launch of the National Youth Service (NYS) initiative, South African National Service Institution (SANSI), aimed at tackling youth unemployment in South Africa in Pretoria on Tuesday.
According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), 78 000 citizens were registered to vote in 111 South African missions across the world between 17 and 19 May 2024.
The mission in London (in the United Kingdom) was the only voting station that remained open on Sunday, 19 May, to cater for the more than 24 000 voters who are registered and approved.
The Commission confirmed that the special voting abroad proceeded smoothly with no major incidents.
READ | Overseas special votes conclude
READ | South Africans in London urged to cast their vote
Local special votes
The IEC is now preparing for the in-country special voting, which will take place on 27 and 28 May.
There are 1.7 million approved special votes, with 653 000 of these being home visit special votes while just over one million are voting station special votes.
The Deputy President used his platform to encourage all South Africans to go out in their numbers and vote on 29 May 2024.
“Remember, placing your crosses on the ballot papers will fulfil a task that history has put on your shoulders.
“Most importantly, you will be deciding for yourselves the direction of our country and the path that we should take to get there,” said Deputy President Mashatile.
With only just seven days away from Election Day, the IEC is reminding citizens that voting stations open at 7 am and close at 9 pm. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 05/21/2024 - 14:51
99 views
South Africans in London urged to cast their vote
South Africans in London urged to cast their vote
The Electoral Commission has called on South Africans living in London to make their voices heard by casting their vote in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
“Today is your last chance to make your voice heard in the #SAelections24. Remember to bring your ID and share a pic of your inked thumb! The voting station is open from 7am-9pm,” said the Commission in a social media post on X on Sunday.
This as the Electoral Commission announced a smooth start to special voting abroad at nine South African missions on Friday, 17 May 2024.
The Commission had designated 17 May 2024 as a special voting day at nine foreign missions as follows: Algiers, Amman, Cairo, Damascus, Jeddah, Kuwait City, Ramallah, Riyad, and Teheran.
"We are pleased that South Africans living abroad have heeded the call to vote. It is appropriate at this time to also express gratitude to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the Department of Home Affairs for their ongoing support,” said Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo.
“The Commission reminds voters that the 102 missions with a work week from Monday–Friday will vote tomorrow, Saturday, 18 May, between 7am and 7pm,” it said in a statement on Friday afternoon.
Due to the large voter population, the Commission determined two days of special voting for London.
“These are Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 May 2024 from 7 am to 9pm. The additional voting day and extended voting hours are intended to enable proper arrangements for the 24 535 voters entitled to vote at the mission.”
Mamabolo reminded voters that, by law, South Africans abroad and those voting outside of their provinces of registration, will only vote on the national compensatory ballot.
The 2024 National compensatory ballot has 52 political parties arranged in two columns. Voters are reminded to make a mark against a single party on the ballot.
Voters out-of country on special voting days must present in person at a mission at which they are registered (or where they have successfully applied for a special vote by VEC 10 notice), and will vote as follows:
- A voter will present their South African identity document (ID) book, smartcard or temporary identity certificate to the election official (copies of identity documents and images saved on devices are not competent forms of identification for voting).
- The left thumbnail of the voter is marked with indelible ink to indicate that they have voted.
- The name of the voter is marked off the list of voters approved to vote at that mission to indicate that the voter has participated in the election.
- The voter is issued with the National compensatory ballot paper.
- The voter will mark the ballot in secret, and place and seal the ballot in an unmarked envelope which will in turn be placed in a second envelop marked with details of the voter and the mission.
- After the voting process, cast national compensatory ballots will be transported through a secure channel back to the national office of the Electoral Commission for counting. The votes will be counted in the presence of agents representing contestants after the close of the voting stations in the country.
Meanwhile, with JUST days left to the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on voters to exercise their right to vote.
“Your vote is important. Your vote counts,” he said in a message to the nation. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 05/19/2024 - 11:41
1080 views
Overseas special votes conclude
Overseas special votes conclude
The Electoral Commission (IEC) has confirmed that overall, special voting abroad proceeded smoothly with no major incidents.
“This is a testament to the meticulous logistics, planning, and execution of those plans across all missions. The Commission expresses gratitude to South Africans who cast special votes in missions around the world,” the IEC said on Sunday.
Special votes are designed to ensure that special measures are put in place to make certain that citizens who would otherwise not be able to vote have opportunities to do so.
Such special measures have been implemented between 17 and 18 May 2024 in 111 South African missions across the world to facilitate voting by around 78 000 citizens.
“Appreciations are also due to voters who in some instances had to endure intemperate weather, wait in queues for extended periods, and travel significant distances. In many stations, a steady flow of voters was reported throughout the day with some missions only closing some two hours beyond their scheduled operating hours.
“Notwithstanding, voters still expressed gratitude on social media and other platforms for the seamless voting experience and level of service they received at stations,” the IEC said.
The mission in London in the United Kingdom is the only voting station that will remain open today, Sunday, 19 May 2024 until 9pm in order to cater for the more than 24 000 voters who are registered and approved to vote at that mission.
READ | South Africans in London urged to cast their vote
READ | Call to vote in upcoming elections
“At this stage, any reports on voter turnout should be treated as unconfirmed. Analysis of the reports would be speculative. The ballots may only be counted after the close of voting stations in the country on 29 May. Only then may the Commission communicate definitively on turnout for the election.
“All ballots cast as well as unused ballot papers from all the 111 missions, will now be transported via a secure channel back to the country. The necessary verifications and counting of the ballots will take place in the presence of representatives of contestants and observers,” the Commission said.
READ | Elections out of the country commence
The arrangements of special votes would not be possible without the support of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the dedication of the staff of the department and heads of missions around the world.
“With overseas voting completed, the Electoral Commission turns its attention to preparations for the in-country special voting which will take place two days before election day on May 27 and 28. There are 1.7 million approved special votes.
“About 653 000 of these are home visit special votes while just over 1 million are voting station special votes. In all, there is at least a single approved special vote in 22 626 of the total 23 292 network of voting stations,” the IEC said.
The IEC has re-emphasised to the general principle that voters may only vote at a voting station at which they are not registered if they have pre-notified the Commission.
The period of pre-notification closed on Friday 17 May 2024.
“With capturing yet to be completed, indications are that at least 387 000 voters have pre-notified the Commission of their intention to vote at another identified voting station. These voters will cast their ballots on 29 May 2024,” the IEC said.
Voters are urged to check their registration details and confirm the location of their correct voting stations ahead of election day by using the following channels:
- Online at www.elections.org.za/pw/Voter/Voter-Information
- SMSing their ID number to 32810
- Contact centre on 0800 11 8000.
- The IEC APP downloadable from AppStore
-SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 05/19/2024 - 13:45
233 views
NATJOINTS to ensure peaceful elections
NATJOINTS to ensure peaceful elections
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has assured South Africans that a conducive environment for a peaceful election has been prepared.
“As the NATJOINTS, we are confident that the measures that have been put in place are sufficient to ensure that the country’s upcoming general elections proceed without any incidents of crime and disruptions,” Deputy National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili said on Sunday in Pretoria during a media briefing.
Led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the State Security Agency (SSA), the NATJOINTS has conducted a national security assessment with key role players in the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster.
WATCH | NATJOINTS briefing
On 29 May 2024, South Africans will once again get an opportunity to exercise their right to vote in the 2024 National and Provincial elections, which marks the country's seventh democratic elections.
“The planning for the safety and security of the 2024 General Elections has been finalised. The operational phase will commence from Wednesday, 22 May 2024 with the activation of the NATJOINTS Coordination Centre, until 09 June 2024
“This NATJOINTS Coordination Centre (NCC) is operating around the clock, closely monitoring the situation in the country through proactive identification of threats and vulnerabilities. The centre serves as a central point of contact for coordination of information and the reporting of incidents to ensure a swift, prompt and coordinated response,” Mosikili said.
This is where all operations in relation to major events in the country including the National and Provincial General Elections will be coordinated.
The NCC structure is mirrored at provincial level through the Provincial Joint Operation and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS), which is activated through the provincial joint operation centres.
The NATJOINTS and PROVJOINTS five-pillar approach is being implemented to ensure that all areas of concern are covered through:
- Intelligence gathering, analysis and co-ordination;
- Proactive approach, which includes high visibility to police, prevent and respond to any crime eventuality;
- Combat approach through law enforcement in response to any violation of the law through deployment of specialized units, supported by the SANDF should the need arise for the SANDF to exercise their secondary role of supporting the SAPS;
- Reactive approach through detection and case management; and the fifth approach; and
- Awareness and information sharing led by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), Electoral Commission (IEC), the NATJOINTS and other government departments in keeping interest parties and communities at home and abroad updated through messaging that will enhance the safety and security of everyone in the country. The media will continuously be updated on a daily basis during the election period by the NATJOINTS.
“While measures have been put in place, the ultimate responsibility of a safe and secure election lies with each one of us. It is a partnership that is required to create harmony, respect for self and others even as we make our way to the polls and back home,” she said.
Risk assessment
Working through the Operational Intelligence Co-ordination Committee (OICC), the NATJOINTS have identified a number of high-risk voting stations and potentially volatile areas, which are being monitored on an on-going basis.
“Deployments are subsequently proportional to the level of risk identified through intensified operations, informed by thorough analysis and intelligence-based reports.
“Threats identified such as community protests are already being attended to and those that are found to be in contravention of the law are being dealt with. Our Public Order Policing Units are on the ground and are ready to prevent and combat any such incidents,” Mosikili said.
The NATJOINTS is aware of social media posts calling for a shutdown by a group of truck drivers.
“As previously communicated, there will be zero tolerance towards threats, intimidation and closure of our roads. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert to ensure there are no criminal activities and that law abiding citizens are not inconvenienced. We call on the Road Freight Industry workers to communicate their grievances within the confines of the law. We reiterate our stance, that no lawlessness and any form of criminality will be tolerated,” she said.
The NATJOINTS is in the first phase of the elections.
“To this end, the NATJOINTS is satisfied that from a security point of view, the securing of voter registrations, policing of gatherings, celebrations and demonstrations, intensifying stabilization at hotspot areas across the country, enhancing visibility and ensuring crime prevention around election related matters, has been executed with precision.
“The second phase of the election, which is the period from the 27th [of May 2024] up until the announcement of the results, will see static deployments at voting stations, escorting of voter material and IEC staff, securing of election warehouses, transportation of voting material and the enforcement of the Electoral Act,” Mosikili explained.
During the third phase, which is the period after the election results have been officially announced, plans are already in place for police to monitor celebrations and gatherings.
Preparations for the inauguration of the President are also in full swing. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 05/19/2024 - 11:53
138 views
Elections out of the country commence
Elections out of the country commence
Today is the first of two days South African citizens abroad can cast their vote in the National and Provincial Elections 2024.
“South African citizens living in other countries will cast the first ballots on 17 May 2024. Nine countries will cast ballots on Friday while the rest of the 102 will cast ballots on Saturday, 18 May 2024,” Electoral Commission (IEC) Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said.
Given the high numbers of expected voters in London at 24 194, this station will operate on both the 18 and 19 May 2024.
The international segment of the voters roll for out-of-country voters has 56 698 voters, but the total number of people expected to vote is 76 580.
“This comes after the approval of 20 886 VEC10 notifications from voters who informed the Chief Electoral Officer of their intention to vote outside of the country due to temporary absence,” Mamabolo said.
The commissioner said the IEC was ready to ensure that voting goes smoothly in 111 foreign missions around the world.
“All missions have already received the election materials, which include ballot papers, voting booths, ballot boxes, envelopes and a voter list.”
Voting stations will be open from 07:00am to 19:00pm, allowing 76 580 voters to exercise their right to vote in South Africa’s 2024 National Elections.
“On both voting days abroad, the Electoral Commission will keep extended hours to assist voters with any enquiries,” he said.
WATCH | Full IEC briefing
SA citizens voting out-of-country in the 2024 National Election can only vote on one day at their mission:
- Missions with a work week from Sunday–Thursday vote on Friday, 17 May, from 7am to 7pm. The following countries are determined to vote on this Friday: Algiers, Amman, Cairo, Damascus, Jeddah, Kuwait City, Ramallah, Riyad and Teheran.
- Missions with a work week from Monday–Friday vote on Saturday, 18 May, from 7am to 7pm.
Two days of special votes have been determined for the UK based on the number of voters who will vote at that mission. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 05/17/2024 - 09:38
688 views
When words aren’t enough: Parties falling short on climate action
In the midst of political alliances with coal lobbyists, environmentalists are urging strategic voting and active citizenship to address the deepening climate crisis and stave off the collapse of natural systems. Voting is crucial, but South Africa’s political parties are falling short on addressing urgent climate and ecological challenges. In reality, many are “schizophrenic”, “bipolar”, …