IEC sets the stage for 2024 elections

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) yesterday formally launched the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE2024) programme, themed “Your Democracy, Own It”, and declared it was ready to host millions of eligible voters at around 23 200 voting stations.

For the first time, independent candidates will be able to contest for seats at the national and provincial elections after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law their participation in April.

IEC chair Mosotho Moepya and CEO Sy Mamabolo presided over the launch.

“Today, we stand proud as the pre-eminent, constitutionally-mandated body that manages elections and make bold that we are ready for the NPE 2024,” Moepya declared.

‘Election possible between May and middle of August’

Mamabolo said while the term of office of the current legislatures, national and provincial, ends around 18 May 2024, the national and provincial governments would remain in office until the newly elected public representatives are able to take office.

He said in terms of the constitution, SA must have an election within 90 days of the expiry of the terms of the legislatures. “Therefore, an election is possible between May and the middle of August 2024,” he said.

“The proclamation of the election date is by our head of state, 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.”

Mamabolo said that once the Electoral Amendment Act was signed into law by the president, the commission moved with deliberate speed to finalise the supporting business applications necessary for the implementation of the Act.

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Around 23 200 voting stations will be open on 18 and 19 November for voters to register and check their details on the roll.

“Furthermore, we’ve expanded registration modalities to enable voters’ continuous enrolment.

“For those with internet access, registration, inspection, and updates are accessible via www. elections.org.za. Voters may also visit local commission offices or capitalise on various activation campaigns to register and update their information.”

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

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