Rain, heat and delays put special voting to the test as election day looms

The first day of special voting in South Africa concluded successfully, with the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) reporting that delays were resolved in Cape Town and that voting proceeded smoothly nationwide. Special voting closed at 5pm on Monday, November 2nd, and the IEC expressed satisfaction with the overall conduct of the process.

However, the Commission warned that rainy weather in parts of the Eastern Cape and hot conditions in several provinces could pose challenges for voters. They urged approved voters to cast their ballots on Tuesday, the final day of special voting, as this would be their last opportunity before the general election on November 4th.

The IEC confirmed that officials would continue conducting approved home visits for eligible voters who could not be reached on Monday. Voters were reminded not to make photographic images of marked ballot papers and to respect electoral rules to maintain the integrity of the voting process. The Commission also warned against campaigning, canvassing, intimidation, and attempts to influence voters inside voting stations, as these are criminal offenses.