IEC launches apps for voters
Voters will be able to keep abreast of election information and updates on their mobile devices during the elections.
This will be possible through one of several mobile applications (apps) released by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to enhance voter education and information ahead of the elections.
The apps will provide the user with voter information such as registration status and voting station locations, election information including candidate lists, election results and seat calculations, and general information such as frequently asked questions and contacts.
“As a measure of transparency and openness, voters will be able to access and follow the 2014 elections results [in] real-time throughout the capturing process through their mobile devices from anywhere and anytime… including the final seat calculation and seat allocation,” explained chief information Ooficer Libisi Maphanga.
“Voters will be able join us and all stakeholders in a journey of monitoring the correctness of what is captured and calculate the final results with us.”
The apps are available on smartphones, tablets iPads and Slates and can be downloaded free from all major apps stores on the following platforms Android, BlackBerry, Apple, Windows 8 and Symbian.
The IEC also released an educational app targeting young voters. The IXSA app is a game aiming to introduce first-time voters to the process in a “fun, interactive and innovative way”.
However, IXSA is only available in iOS and Android.
“The game allows users to pick an avatar and then follow this character on ‘Election Day’ – facing a number of challenges along the way which educate voters how, when and where to cast their vote,” the IEC said.
Players earn points on how election-savvy they are and can compete against other South Africans by posting their scores on social media, and challenge their friends to beat their score.
“This game is about making the voting process accessible to young people in a format they are familiar with – and in their pockets and on the move via their smart phones,” explained Dr Nomsa Masuku, deputy chief electoral officer.
Click here to download the app.
