Over 1.4 million voters cast ballots early as IEC pledges readiness for election day

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has reported that over 1.4 million voters cast their ballots during a two-day special voting period. IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya expressed pride in the enthusiasm displayed by both the voters and IEC staff. Moepya confidently stated that the commission was well-prepared and eager to welcome millions of voters.

The IEC oversees 23,676 voting stations and deploys over 188,000 officials across the country. Moepya urged the 29.2 million registered voters to participate in the election between 7 am and 9 pm. During the special voting period, 1,425,942 voters cast their ballots, with 974,852 voters attending voting stations and the remaining 451,090 voting through home visits by IEC teams.

The highest number of special voters was recorded in Gauteng (264,898), KwaZulu-Natal (208,846), and Eastern Cape (207,258). The special votes will be securely stored and counted after 9 pm on November 4, with the final results announced as part of the overall election results per voting station. IEC CEO Sy Mamabolo confirmed several security incidents but assured that all vital resources were secured and ready for the peaceful conduct of the elections.

Campaigning for the elections concluded at midnight, and all parties, independent candidates, and contestants were reminded to refrain from electioneering activities in the vicinity of the voting stations. Voters were encouraged to verify their registration details and confirm their registration locations before leaving their homes to avoid unnecessary delays.

Moepya appealed to all registered voters to participate in the democratic process and ensure the country's future.