Election possibly between May and the middle of August next year- IEC

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) officially launched its 2024 national and provincial elections programme on Tuesday at the Gallagher Estates in Midrand.

The IEC also unveiled the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE) logo and the theme is: “Your democracy – Own it”.

Independents

The electoral body declared that it was ready to host millions of eligible voters at more than 23 296 voting stations across the country.

“The NPE 2024 will be historic as independent candidates will, for the first time, be able to contest for seats at the national and provincial elections. The law enabling the participation of independent candidates was signed into law in April by President Cyril Ramaphosa.”

The commission, led by the institution’s Chairperson Mosotho Moepya and Sy Mamabolo, the Chief Electoral Officer, presided over the launch, which was attended by various stakeholders, including political parties.

Mamabolo said while the term of office of the current legislatures ends around 18 May 2023, the national and provincial governments would remain in office until the newly-elected public representatives are able to take office.

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Election date

Mamabolo said in terms of the Constitution, the country must have an election within 90 days of the expiry of the legislatures’ terms.

“Therefore, an election is possible between May and the middle of August 2024. The proclamation of the election date is by our head of state, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa after consultation with the Electoral Commission. Our expectation is that the provincial elections will be, as they have for the past 30 years, be synchronised with the national election.”

Voter registration

Mamabolo called on South Africans to use the commission’s online portal for registration, verification, and updates.

“We urge you to actively participate in the registration weekends and exercise your responsibility as engaged citizens, who choose their own representatives.

“We extend a call to all electoral stakeholders to stand shoulder to shoulder with us, working collaboratively to make these historic elections a resounding success,” Mamabolo said.

Chat bot

The IEC is also making a number of tools and resources publicly available to South African citizens in the lead up to, during, and after the national elections next year, including a WhatsApp chatbot.

To access the chatbot, users shoud save the IEC number 0600 88 0000 in their contact list. Once done, search for the contact number in WhatsApp, with the verified IEC account.

Once selected, start a new chat and type in the phrase “Hi” and the chatbot will reply with a welcome message and link to the voter registration website. From there, they just follow the prompts to interact with the chatbot and get assistance required.

Democracy

Commission Chairperson Moepya reminded South Africans that democracy was not a destination.

“As we gaze upon 2024, an election year of unique significance, [it marks] not only another stride in South Africa’s democratic journey but also celebrating the 30th birthday of our electoral democracy.

“With hope and determination, we embark on this journey, knowing that the next 30 years hold opportunities for growth, unity, and progress. Together, as South Africans, we shall ensure that our electoral democracy continues to shine as a beacon for the world,” Moepya said.

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