The Electoral Commission of South Africa today launched
the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE 2024) programme, declaring that
it is ready to host millions of eligible voters at over 23 296 voting stations
across the country.
The NPE 2024 will be historic as independent
candidates will, for the first time, be able to contest for seats at the
national and provincial elections. President Cyril Ramaphosa assented to the
law enabling the participation of independent candidates in April 2023.
The Commission, led by Chairperson Mosotho Moepya
and Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo, presided over the launch, which was
held at Gallagher Estate, Midrand and attended by various stakeholders,
including political parties.
“Today, we stand proud as the pre-eminent
Constitutionally-mandated body that manages elections and make bold that we are
ready for the NPE 2024,” Mamabolo declared. He explained that while the term of
office of the current legislatures – national and nine provincial – ends around
18 May 2023, the national and provincial governments would remain in office
until the newly elected public representatives are able to take office.
Mamabolo said that, in terms of the Constitution,
the country must have an election within 90 days of the expiry of the
legislatures’ terms. “Therefore, an election is possible between May and the
middle of August 2024. The proclamation of the election date is by our head of
state, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa after consultation with the
Electoral commission. Our expectation is that the provincial elections will, as
they have for the past 30 years, be synchronised with the national election,”
he added.
Mamabolo said that once the Electoral Amendment Act
was signed into law by the President, the Commission would move with deliberate
speed to finalise the supporting business applications necessary for the
implementation of the Act.
VOTER
REGISTRATION
Prior
to each election, the Electoral Commission launches registration drives aimed
at enrolling new voters and empowering existing ones to scrutinise and, where
necessary, amend their registration details. These endeavours breathe life into
the voters’ roll.
The
Commission reiterates its commitment to open nearly 23 296 voting stations for
the weekend of 19 and 19 November 2023. This monumental effort not only
registers new voters but also facilitates the verification of the roll. Voting
station-based registration ensures equitable access to the vote.
Furthermore,
the Electoral Commission has expanded registration modalities to enable voters’
continuous enrolment. For those with internet access, registration, inspection,
and updates are accessible via https://registertovote.elections.org.za.
Voters may also visit local offices or
capitalise on various activation campaigns to register and update their
information.
MEDIA CAMPAIGN
The
theme for the NPE 2024 campaign is “Your Democracy, Own It”. The creative
celebrates the fruits of democracy by showcasing different, real-life
experiences of young South Africans from all corners of the country. Their
stories are told in an epic, emotive and inspirational manner that gives
personalised context to democracy as enshrined in our Constitution. The diverse
audiences will relate the Electoral Commission’s call-to-action message to
celebrate the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s electoral
democracy’s by registering and voting in the 2024 elections. The campaign will
flight on national television and radio stations, as well as on various digital
and social platforms.
The
Electoral Commission reiterated its readiness to host and oversee NPE 2024. It
issued a clarion call to South Africans to use the online portal for
registration, verification, and updates. “We urge you to actively participate
in the registration weekends and exercise your responsibility as engaged
citizens who choose their own representatives. We extend a call to all
electoral stakeholders to stand shoulder to shoulder with us, working
collaboratively to make these historic elections a resounding success,”
Mamabolo said.
Commission
Chairperson Moepya said: “As we gaze upon 2024, an election year of unique
significance, marking not only another stride in South Africa's democratic journey
but also celebrating the thirtieth birthday of our electoral democracy, let us
remember that democracy is not a destination; it is a perpetual journey. It
thrives on our active engagement, reverence for its values, and collective
effort to surmount challenges.
“With
hope and determination, we embark on this journey, knowing that the next 30
years hold opportunities for growth, unity, and progress. Together, as South
Africans, we shall ensure that our electoral democracy continues to shine as a
beacon for the world,” said Moepya.
ISSUED
BY THE ELECTORAL COMMISSION
Ensuring free, fair and credible elections
For
media queries: Please contact Kate Bapela on 082 600 6386
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media interviews: Email requests to [email protected]
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