Several issues have risen at voting stations as the day progresses for the 2024 elections in the Free State.  
Issues like voting stations not opening on time, ballot boxes not sealed properly, the system not picking up that people can vote on three ballots, people being turned away at voting stations, and scanning devices not working. 

Free State IEC manager, Itumeleng Liba. Photo: Morgan Piek

They have noted the concerns and investigated the issues experienced at various voting stations in the province, said Free State IEC manager Itumeleng Liba. “We are very happy with the turnout today as many people have gone out to cast their ballot, yes we have received a number of complaints from voting stations in the area.

“Such as the electronic scanning system not working we advised officers to use the manual scans and from there on no problems were experienced.

“Ballot boxes were sealed properly when they left the warehouse, the problem is that when the boxes travel from the warehouse to the stations the seal might break. But all the boxes arrived at stations sealed as far as I know.”  

In Ladybrand, a voter said when they got to New Vale Primary Farm School in Vinies, there was no privacy like the previous time at the voting station.  

“I had to block my vote with my body, if someone would stand behind me, they could see my vote,” said Louise from Ladybrand, who didn’t want to disclose her surname. “The IEC officers said that we were supposed to cover the paper with our bodies. But previously it was much more private.”

Residents in Bainsvlei complained about the time the voting station opened, which was an hour later than 07:00. “We have noted the concern of the residents and we are investigating the reason why the station opened an hour later, that was not supposed to happen,” said Liba. 

Three thousand registered voters went out to make their mark at the Fauna Primary School and Grassland Primary School voting stations.  

The 2024 Election Day is in full swing and voters are at various stations to cast their ballots. Voting stations will be open until 9 pm this evening.  

OFM News/Zenande Mpame  mvhcmg