An article on page 3 of today’s City Times, dated July 9, informs residents of the municipal elections registration weekend being July 17 and 18.
However, the Electoral Commission of South Africa has, subsequent to the City Times going to print, postponed the registration weekend to July 31 to August 1 in light of the third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic sweeping the country.
The decision was made following a review of the current conditions, including the rate of infections and hospitalisations over the past seven days and its impact on preparations for the registration weekend.
The two-week postponement will have a knock-on effect on certain dates and activities associated with the proclamation and election, including delaying the proclamation by four days until August 6.
However, the Commission remains confident that successful elections can be held within a reduced election timetable of 82 days rather than the original 86 days.
The body is still awaiting the final report of the Moseneke Inquiry into whether the elections can be free and fair if they proceed as scheduled on October 27.
The inquiry is being led by former Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke, who is scheduled to present his report and its recommendations to the Commission by July 21.
Go to www.elections.org.za to find out if you are registered and for more information about the elections.
(Information: Electoral Commission of SA).
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