Local councillors share vital information to help voters navigate upcoming elections
As the election approaches, these guidelines and clarifications aim to empower voters and ensure a successful and informed voting process.
As South Africans are preparing for the May 29 general elections, local ward councillors in Boksburg shared valuable information to empower and educate voters, to ensure a smooth and successful voting experience.
Councillor Madelaine Muller highlighted five essential tips aimed at streamlining the voting process and helping voters navigate electoral procedures effectively.
- Confirm your voting station where you are registered to vote, as this will prevent any confusion on election day and enable you to cast your vote efficiently.
- Accepted forms of ID include a smart card, ID book, or temporary ID. “It is crucial to note that driver’s licenses and passports will not be accepted as valid forms of identification at the polling station,” said Muller.
- Verify ballot papers: Voters are advised to carefully check and ensure that they receive three ballot papers unless they are voting from another province and have applied to vote at a different station, in which they will receive only one ballot for the national vote. All ballot papers must be stamped at the back with the official IEC stamp to be considered valid.
- Mark your ballots correctly: “When marking the ballot papers, place your X next to the party you wish to vote for. This simple yet crucial step ensures that your vote is accurately counted and attributed to your chosen political party.”
- Secure ballot placement: Muller reminds voters to follow the instructions of the ballot box controller and ensure that their marked ballots are placed in the correct ballot box to maintain the integrity of the voting process.
Meanwhile, Ward 32 Clr Marius de Vos shared the following tips and frequently asked questions on elections:
- Voting stations will be open from 07:00 to 21:00 on election day. De Vos advises voters who want to avoid long queues to try and be there early in the day.
- Can I still be allowed to vote if I arrive after closing time? No, however, voters who were already in the queue will be assisted even after closing time.
- De Vos reminds voters to be vigilant and make sure that all three ballot papers are stamped at the back. “If not stamped at the back, the ballot cast will be deemed invalid.”
Ward 33 Clr Ashley Hoods reminded voters that the upcoming elections are for national and provincial representatives, not local government elections. He said it’s important for voters to understand how the new three-ballot system works.
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