IEC to investigate reports of unstamped ballot papers

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has said it would be investigating reports that the “double envelope” system had not been used in certain cases, rendering votes null and void.

Following the start of special voting, reports have surfaced that the process of stamping ballot papers in the back has not taken place at some polling stations.

This has included a viral message that has been circulated on WhatsApp. Its origin and authenticity have not been confirmed.

“Just to let everybody know we went to cast our special votes today and by chance, both my husband and myself noticed that the ballot papers weren’t stamped on the reverse side. We approached them and they then stamped them. Without the stamp, they won’t count at all! So please be vigilant when you vote on Wednesday,” the message reads.

“Depending on the outcome of the investigation the commission will make a decision on whether these votes are included in the count or not,” the IEC said in a statement.

“The commission appreciates the vigilance of party agents and voters in monitoring the election process and in bringing to its attention potential problems,” the statement continues.

“This should be done firstly at the voting station through the presiding officer and, if not resolved, then it should be raised through the existing channels, including the party liaison structures. Providing as much detail of any incident – including where and when it occurred – would significantly speed up the investigation process.”

(Compiled by Daniel Friedman)

For more news your way, download The Citizen’s app for iOS and Android.