The Electoral Commission of South Africa has today - 24 October 2023 - formally launched the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE2024) program, 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.
The law enabling the participation of independent candidates was signed into law in April by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The Commission, led by the institution's Chairperson Mosotho Moepya and Sy Mamabolo, the Chief Electoral Officer, presided over the launch, which was held at Gallagher Estates, 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," he declared.
Mamabolo explained that while the term of office of the current legislatures, national and 9 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. He said 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 be, 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 moved 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 scrutinize 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 November 18th and 19th, 2023. This monumental effort not only registers new voters but also facilitates the verification of the roll. Station-based registration ensures equitable access to the vote. Furthermore, we've expanded registration modalities to enable voters' continuous enrolment.
For those with internet access, registration, inspection, and updates are accessible via www.elections.org.za. Voters may also visit local Commission offices or capitalize on various activation campaigns to register and update their information. MEDIA CAMPAIGN The theme for NPE2024 will be "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 Commission's call-to-action message to celebrate SA's electoral democracy's 30th anniversary by registering and voting in the NPE2024. It will be broadcast on national TV and radio stations as well as on various digital platforms. The Electoral Commission reiterated its unwavering readiness to host and oversee the 2024 National and Provincial Elections. It issued a clarion call to South Africans to use the Commission's 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.
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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 30th 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."
