IEC says they are ready for tomorrow’s municipal elections

By Lelethu Mquqo
17 May 2011

Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission Brigalia Bam says she is satisfied with the turnout for the special vote.

Speaking at the close of the special votes yesterday, Bam said more than 200 000 people had cast their votes.

There had been some minor problems yesterday, but these would be ironed out by tomorrow Bam said.

Overall the process had proceeded smoothly and she sees it as a good omen for tomorrow’s municipal polls.

President Jacob Zuma will personally inspect all operations at the IEC results centre in Pretoria today.

He will also interact with staff at the centre.

Zuma officially ended his election campaign yesterday with a warning to incoming councillors of consequences for those who did not perform.

Meanwhile, a new Ipsos Markinor survey has found that the ANC remains the strongest political party in the country, although its support seems to have decreased since the 2009 general election.

The ANC got the support of nearly 57% of South Africans over 18, followed by the Democratic Alliance with 19%.

The Inkatha Freedom Party came in third with just over 2%.