Zuko Komisa
The Electoral Commission (IEC) has verified that all things considered, special voting overseas went off without a hitch.
IEC said that to make voting easier for some 78 000 citizens, specific procedures were put in place at 111 South African embassies worldwide on May 17 and 18, 2024. They have further expressed gratitude to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the dedication of the staff of the department and heads of missions around the world.
“Appreciations are also due to voters who in some instances had to endure intemperate weather, wait in queues for extended periods, and travel significant distances. In many stations, a steady flow of voters was reported throughout the day with some missions only closing some two hours beyond their scheduled operating hours.
“Notwithstanding, voters still expressed gratitude on social media and other platforms for the seamless voting experience and level of service they received at stations,”
“At this stage, any reports on voter turnout should be treated as unconfirmed. Analysis of the reports would be speculative. The ballots may only be counted after the close of voting stations in the country on 29 May. Only then may the Commission communicate definitively on turnout for the election.
“All ballots cast as well as unused ballot papers from all the 111 missions, will now be transported via a secure channel back to the country. The necessary verifications and counting of the ballots will take place in the presence of representatives of contestants and observers,”
The Electoral Commission (IEC)
🇿🇦We're officially 1⃣0⃣days away from Election Day on 29 May!🗳️Don't forget to mark your calendars – voting stations open at 7AM sharp and close at 9PM. Your vote is your voice, so make sure to vote where you're registered. It's your democracy, own it! #SAelections24… pic.twitter.com/ebi5BAvD1Y
— IEC South Africa (@IECSouthAfrica) May 19, 2024
