Media release

Government thanks South Africans for voting

03 August 2016

3 August 2016

Audio clip

Government is pleased that voting in the 2016 Municipal Election proceeded smoothly and without major incidents. We are satisfied that the elections were peaceful and took place in an atmosphere of political tolerance.

The Minister for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, who is also the chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Elections, congratulates the IEC for the delivering yet another successful election. The demonstration of active citizenship and patriotism displayed by countless South Africans who voted today is an indication of a strengthened democracy and their actions are truly inspirational.  

The large voter turnout is testament to the strength of our democracy. We commend the patience of South Africans who conducted themselves in a dignified manner as they waited to cast their ballots.

“Today the profound impact of what freedom means to ordinary South Africans reverberated in the millions of people from all walks of life who cast their vote for democracy”, said Minister van Rooyen.

Government applauds the youth, especially the first time voters, for their commitment towards advancing our democracy.

Government thanks all law enforcement agencies for their sterling work which ensured that elections were held in an environment that is safe and secure. Their presence on the ground, ensured stability in areas that had been identified as hotspots.  They worked in tandem with government departments and agencies across the country to ensure the high state of preparedness and the smooth flow of the processes witnessed today.

The media played a pivotal role in educating the public and providing vital voter information around the clock. “We commend and appreciate both the domestic and international media for the balanced coverage of the elections. Much of the coverage reflected the energy and enthusiasm of South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994”, said Minister van Rooyen.

Within the country’s euphoria of the elections, we however regret the loss of life experienced today. “Government is saddened by the untimely deaths of our beloved countrymen who were also eager to cast their ballot. We convey our deepest condolences and sympathy to their families and loved ones for their loss”, said the Minister.

South Africans are commended for playing their part in making their voices heard and moving South Africa forward by voting. The resounding success of the elections have undoubtedly added to the country’s legacy of regular and peaceful elections. 

Now that South Africans have spoken through the ballot, government encourages all citizens to work together with those who will have been elected to public office strengthen local government.

Enquiries:
Donald Liphoko
Acting Director-General
Cell: 082 901 0766

Issued by Government Communication and Information System

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