The special votes process, which commenced on Monday, is a crucial part of the electoral system, ensuring that all eligible voters have the opportunity to cast their votes in a manner that accommodates their specific needs.
With over 20,000 voting stations mobilized nationwide, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has taken extensive measures to facilitate this process.
Masego Sheburi, the Deputy Chief Electoral Officer of the IEC, announced that registered special voters would be assisted until 5 pm on Tuesday. This assistance includes provision for voting at home, in care facilities, or at designated voting stations, thus ensuring inclusivity.
As of the current electoral cycle, 1.6 million special voters have been approved. Among these, a significant portion will be casting their votes at designated voting stations, while others will be doing so from their provided addresses.
This breakdown is essential for understanding the logistical efforts required to accommodate such a large number of special votes.
By 2 pm on Monday, 230,000 votes had already been cast, reflecting a strong turnout and engagement from special voters. Sheburi has urged those who have not yet voted to take advantage of the available provisions and ensure their participation in the electoral process.
To maintain the integrity and orderliness of the voting process, specific policies have been implemented. One notable policy is the one-time visit rule for voters at their provided addresses, ensuring that each voter is visited only once by the electoral officers.
Furthermore, the counting of special votes will be conducted alongside regular votes after the closing of voting stations on May 29. This simultaneous counting ensures that all votes are treated equally and that the results reflect the collective decision of the electorate.
Additionally, the IEC has clarified the rules regarding multiple applications for special votes and Section 24A applications. Voters are reminded that each individual is entitled to only one vote, irrespective of the number of applications submitted.
This rule is critical for preserving the fairness and legality of the election. By adhering to these guidelines, the IEC aims to uphold a transparent and efficient electoral process, reinforcing public confidence in the democratic system.
The voting process across the country has encountered several external challenges, particularly affecting the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in certain areas.
One significant issue has arisen in the OR Tambo region, where ongoing taxi strikes have severely disrupted voting operations.
As a result, 107 voting stations have been hindered, posing a substantial challenge to the IEC’s efforts to maintain a seamless electoral process. These disruptions are beyond the commission’s control and have the potential to impact voter turnout and the overall efficiency of the voting process.
In addition to logistical challenges, there have been security concerns that have required immediate attention. A notable incident involved the Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) party, which allegedly broke into an IEC warehouse over the weekend.
This breach has prompted an ongoing investigation by both the commission and the police. The MK party’s actions were reportedly in response to inquiries about a former member’s presence at the Results Operation Centre (ROC).
DCEO Mawethu Mosery said the Provincial Electoral Officer met with the leadership of the party. “The incident is still being delt with by the commission and the police. We will know in due course if criminal charges will be laid.”
The IEC and law enforcement agencies are working diligently to address this security lapse and prevent any further disruptions.
To bolster security and ensure a safe voting environment, additional public order policing (POP) members have been deployed to critical regions, including KwaZulu-Natal and Mthatha in the Eastern Cape.
During a send-off parade, National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola emphasized the importance of preventing and combating any criminal activities that could jeopardize the electoral process. Over 700 POP members were instructed to safeguard the voting process, ensuring that citizens can cast their votes without fear or intimidation.
