The by-elections, which will take place in 55 municipalities across the country, are expected to affect over 600 000 registered voters. OFM News previously reported that voter registration in October proceeded without many hiccups. Briefing the media earlier today on the final preparations before the by-elections, the Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said all measures are well in place, including Covid-19 protocols set to be followed.

The IEC spokesperson in the Free State, Mmathabo Rasengane, confirmed the November 11 by-elections will include two wards in the Mangaung Metro Municipality and one in the Mohokare Municipality, as well as one in Matjhabeng Municipality. All these by-elections are as a result of councillors' deaths.

Rasengane further confirmed the November 11 by-elections in the province will be held under strict Covid-19 protocols as they aim to ensure the safety of voters, election staff, party agents, observers, and all those involved.

She, in a statement, highlighted "these include implementing strict social distancing practices outside and inside voting stations along with the use of hand sanitisers as voters enter and exit the voting station".

Voters, election staff, and all those entering the voting station will be required to wear a mask at all times. Voters are also encouraged to bring their own pens to mark their ballot papers, although pens will be provided and sanitised after each use.

The by-elections are the first to be held since election activities were suspended in March this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic and will include those that had to take place in the past months.

OFM News