The Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) in October 2023, launched the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE 2024) programme, declaring that it is ready to host millions of eligible voters at over 23 296 voting stations across the country.
The legislation enabling the participation of independent
candidates was signed into law in April by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The Commission, led by Chairperson Mosotho Moepya and Chief
Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo, presided over the launch, which was held at
Gallagher Estate, Midrand and attended by various stakeholders, including
political parties.
“Today, we stand proud as the pre-eminent
Constitutionally-mandated body that manages elections and make bold that we are
ready for the NPE 2024,” Mamabolo declared.
He explained that while the term of office of the current
legislatures – national and nine provincial – ends around 18 May 2023, the
national and provincial governments would remain in office until the newly
elected public representatives are able to take office.
Mamabolo said that, in terms of the Constitution, the
country must have an election within 90 days of the expiry of the legislatures’
terms.
“Therefore, an election is possible between May and the
middle of August 2024. The proclamation of the election date is by our head of
state, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa after consultation with the
Electoral commission. Our expectation is that the provincial elections will, as
they have for the past 30 years, be synchronised with the national election,”
he added.
Mamabolo said that once the Electoral Amendment Act was
signed into law by the President, the Commission would move with deliberate
speed to finalise the supporting business applications necessary for the
implementation of the Act.
The Commission reiterates its commitment to open nearly 23
296 voting stations for the weekend of 19 and 19 November 2023. This monumental
effort not only registers new voters but also facilitates the verification of
the roll. Voting station-based registration ensures equitable access to the
vote.
Furthermore, the Electoral Commission has expanded
registration modalities to enable voters’ continuous enrolment. For those with
internet access, registration, inspection, and updates are accessible via
https://registertovote.elections.org.za. Voters may also visit local offices or
capitalise on various activation campaigns to register and update their
information.
The theme for the NPE 2024 campaign is “Your Democracy, Own
It”, which celebrates the fruits of democracy by showcasing different,
real-life experiences of young South Africans from all corners of the country.
‘’Their stories are told in an epic, emotive and
inspirational manner that gives personalised context to democracy as enshrined
in our Constitution. The diverse audiences will relate the Electoral Commission’s
call-to-action message to celebrate the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s
electoral democracy’s by registering and voting in the 2024 elections,’’ said Sy
Mamabolo, Chief Electoral Officer.
The Commission called on South Africans to use its online
portal for registration, verification and updates.
“We urge you to actively participate in the registration
weekends and exercise your responsibility as engaged citizens who choose their
own representatives. We extend a call to all electoral stakeholders to stand
shoulder to shoulder with us, working collaboratively to make these historic
elections a resounding success,” Mamabolo said.
Done By: Mitchum George
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