Government thanks voters for successful and peaceful elections

08 May 2014

Government thanks the millions of South Africans who have voted in the country’s fifth democratic elections.  We appreciate the tolerance, dignity and patience with which voters conducted themselves as they waited to cast their vote.

This demonstration of active citizenship and patriotism was also visible on 30 April 2014 when thousands of people cast special votes at 116 South African missions abroad.

Government would like to congratulate security agencies and other government departments for their hard work and dedication over the past few months which ensured mostly incident free elections. The security measures contributed greatly to elections which were peaceful and conducted in a spirit of democracy. 

The work of Home Affairs officials has also not gone unnoticed. Three hundred and thirteen (313) Home Affairs offices across the country opened their doors at 7am on election day to assist the public with enabling documents, so that they were able to exercise their democratic right to vote.
 
Although the work of the Independent Electorate Commissions continues, we congratulate this institution for the smooth running of the 2014 General Elections.  

We also thank domestic and international observer missions for monitoring of our electoral process.

Government acknowledges the positive spirit in which the political parties conducted themselves during the elections. This is an indication of our maturity as a democracy.

We appreciate the comprehensive coverage of our elections by the national and international media, and affirm the positive role of the media in strengthening and enhancing our democracy.

Acting GCIS CEO Phumla Williams said: “The 2014 General Elections were another milestone in our country’s democratic history. Thank you, South Africa, for keeping our democracy strong and vibrant by casting your vote.”

Audio: Government thanks voters for successful and peaceful elections

Enquiries:
Phumla Williams
083 501 0139

Issued by Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)