Voters wishing to apply for a special vote may do so at their local IEC office during office hours from Monday, 23 June, till Friday, 27 June.

The by-elections in the province are scheduled for Wednesday, 9 July, and special voting will be available at voting stations as well as through home visits on 8 July.

Registration and voting will take place at Leeuwspruit Primary School, Ledibohong Primary School, and Vaalpark Primary School.

“Voting stations will operate from 08:00 to 17:00 to provide an opportunity for all eligible voters to register,” said Free State IEC spokesperson Mmathabo Rasengane. “This also provides an opportunity for current voters to verify their registration details and to amend their address information where necessary.

“The Electoral Commission urges eligible voters to present their identity documents for registration, which may include a green barcoded ID book, a smartcard ID, or a valid temporary ID certificate.”

Voters will be required to furnish their physical home address upon registration or provide sufficient particulars regarding their place of residence. Documented proof of address, such as a municipal account, is not mandatory, she said.

The by-election will be held in Ward 14 of the Metsimaholo Municipality, which became vacant due to the resignation of the councillor. The ward is considered a safe DA seat.

‘Applications for special votes can also be submitted online’

Voters can also verify and update their details at their local IEC office during weekdays within office hours. “Voters should be aware that it is illegal to register and cast a ballot in a ward in which they do not normally reside,” said Rasengane.

“Applications for special votes can also be submitted online via the IEC’s website, and upon applying online, voters will receive an SMS notification regarding the outcome once their application has been processed.”

Meanwhile, the municipality is investigating after allegations were made about the municipality at the special council meeting on Thursday (22/5). The meeting did not end well as a clash between EFF and ANC councillors sparked an altercation of words being exchanged.

“We are aware of the incident during the council meeting and will conduct a thorough investigation in accordance with our internal policies and procedures,” said Metsimaholo Municipality spokesperson Gino Alberts.

The municipality will also ensure transparency and fairness throughout the process, upholding the higher standards of governance and accountability, he said.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame cg