A significant part of the growth has been driven by young people, highlighting the continued role of youth participation in South Africa’s democracy. More than 1.7-million people visited voting stations during the IEC’s second and final voter registration weekend in August.

The campaign pushed the voters’ roll beyond 29-million registered voters, with more than 750,000 new voters added during the two registration weekends. More than 291,000 people registered for the first time during the final weekend, while more than 1.5-million voters updated or confirmed their information.

The IEC previously reported that almost 486,000 registration transactions were recorded among citizens aged between 16 and 29 during the registration period. Nearly half of all first-time registrations came from voters younger than 29.

“South Africa, you have made us proud. You have registered in your largest numbers,” said IEC chairperson commissioner Mosotho Moepya. “We have the greatest enrolment on the voters’ roll in these elections, particularly young people.

“Of course, we would have liked to have many more of you on this voters’ roll. Now that you’re on the roll, the fourth of November (election date) awaits you.

“We are prepared for you. We look forward to meeting you at the voting stations. Use this opportunity to serve your country. Voting is service to your nation.”

The local government elections are scheduled for Wednesday, 4 November, when voters will elect representatives responsible for governing municipalities across the country. 

The strong registration figures come as the IEC shifts its focus from voter registration to final preparations for the elections.

The commission encouraged eligible citizens to ensure that their details are correct and that they know where they are expected to vote. The commission urged eligible voters who cannot cast their ballots on 4 November to make use of the special-vote process. Applications for special votes remain open until Monday (12/10).

The process is intended to ensure that people who cannot vote at their registered voting stations on election day, are still able to exercise their right to vote in the local government elections. 

It caters for voters who are physically unable to reach a voting station, as well as those who will be away from their registered voting districts on Election Day.

Different arrangements apply depending on why a voter requires a special vote. The first category is a home-visit special vote for people who cannot physically access a voting station because of their condition.

If the application is approved, an election official will visit the voter at the place where they are confined, which must be within the voting district in which they are registered.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame cvs

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