The disappearing voting ink on a voter's thumb. Picture: IEC/Twitter
The Electoral Commission of South Africa has clarified rumours that were circulating claiming that those with fake nails were not allowed to vote.
“It’s not true that you can’t vote with fake nails. The indelible ink used to mark thumbs is effective and is one of a number of safeguards to protect the integrity of election results.
“Unfortunately there are recurring themes of disinformation with every election,” said the IEC on Wednesday.
Though there were those who proved the IEC right with pictures of inked manicured nails, some, however, claimed the ink was not strong enough.
Thabile Shabangu said: “There is nothing indelible about that ink, I washed my hands twice and it already off, were it not for the stamp on my ID , I would vote all day,” while Gawie wrote: “I voted and then came home to wash a few dishes, and my mark has gone. Sunlight dish washing liquid must be really strong then, or indelible ink is not so indelible this time around.”
The IEC further reminded people that taking a picture of a marked ballot was illegal.
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