The Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has announced that over 2.6 million people will vote on Monday and Tuesday. This number represents the total approved for special votes in the local government elections. Out of the 29,230,808 registered voters, 2.5 million have been cleared to cast their special votes. IEC CEO Sy Mamabolo revealed the commission's state of readiness during a media briefing in Midrand on Sunday night.
In a separate development, the Electoral Court has dealt a blow to the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) after finding that the party nominated a man as its ward councillor candidate without his consent. The court ruled that Sivuyile Jacquin Tshikila was not an EFF candidate in ward 03 in the Raymond Mhlaba local municipality in the Eastern Cape. As a result, the IEC has been ordered to ensure that voters cannot cast their ballots for him during the local government elections on Wednesday.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a stern warning to ANC councillors and mayors who fail to serve their communities or misuse public funds. He stated that they will be removed from their positions, emphasizing the party's desire for ethical, capable, and accountable leaders in local government. Ramaphosa made these remarks at the ANC's final rally ahead of the local government elections at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape.
Ramaphosa stressed that the ANC expects its elected representatives to prioritize service delivery, responsible spending, and economic development. He believes that municipalities should be properly run, use public money responsibly, and maintain infrastructure to support economic development. The President's comments come ahead of the local government elections, which are crucial for the country's democratic process.
The local government elections are a critical moment for South Africa's democracy, with millions of registered voters set to choose their representatives. The IEC has been working to ensure that the electoral process is fair and transparent. With over 29 million registered voters, the commission's efforts are focused on delivering a successful and credible election.
The ANC's push for capable and accountable leaders is part of its broader strategy to improve service delivery and governance at the local level. The party has been working to strengthen its internal processes and ensure that its candidates are qualified and committed to serving their communities. This approach is seen as crucial in addressing the country's socio-economic challenges.
As the local government elections approach, voters are preparing to make their voices heard. The elections will determine the leadership of municipalities across the country, shaping the future of service delivery and governance. With the IEC's assurance of readiness and the various parties' efforts to engage with voters, the stage is set for a significant democratic event in South Africa.
Key points
- Over 2.6 million South Africans are set to cast special votes in the local government elections on Monday and Tuesday.
- The Electoral Court has ruled that the EFF nominated a candidate without his consent, and the IEC must ensure he is not voted for.
- President Ramaphosa has warned ANC councillors and mayors that they will be removed if they fail to serve their communities or misuse public funds.
