Government on smooth start to general elections

7 May 2014

Government welcomes the update provided by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) at 11h00 today that shows that the 2014 national and provincial elections are well organised and proceeding peacefully. This affirms that our democracy remains strong and vibrant.

The IEC update at 11h00 assured the nation that with a handful of exceptions, voting stations around the country started on time.

Government joins the IEC in encouraging South Africans to keep making their way to voting stations throughout the day and in commending voters for the dignity and patience with which they are conducting themselves.

While the voting process is fundamentally peaceful and successful, security agencies and other components of government will attend to complaints as and when they are received by the IEC or other authorities.

Government reiterates its call that even though voting stations are open until 9pm, voters should take advantage of this public holiday to visit voting stations earlier and throughout the day to avoid bottlenecks near closing time.

To avoid medical emergencies, voters joining queues are advised to take precautions such as drinking water to remain hydrated and taking their prescription medicines.

Today all Home Affairs offices are open to assist citizens with the necessary documents for voting. They will close at 9pm. Voters can call a toll-free number 0800 6011 90 for more information or SMS your ID number to 32810 to check their voting station.

All voters should note the following:

1. If you are outside your voting district but still in the province in which you are registered, you will be allowed to vote in the provincial and national election after filling in a simple form (VEC 4).
2. If you are outside the province where you are registered to vote, you will only be allowed to vote in the national election and not the provincial election at any voting station in that province.

Enquiries:
Phumla Williams
Cell: 083 501 0139

Issued by: Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)