The Electoral Commission (IEC) of South Africa urges South Africans abroad to register for the 2024 National Elections. Register online or in person at your nearest mission on 26 to 28 January 2024, because your vote matters.
As South Africans scattered across the continent, the upcoming 2024 National Elections present a crucial opportunity for you to actively participate in your democracy by ensuring your voice is heard, and to contribute to shaping the future of your homeland.
The ability to participate in the democratic process is a fundamental right, and even if you find yourself thousands of kilometres away, you can still play a role in South Africa’s destiny. As the election campaign tagline of the IEC of South Africa says, it’s ‘your democracy, own it’.
So this is what you, as South Africans living abroad in Africa, need to know to register online and in person for the 2024 National Elections. Your participation in the democratic journey of the nation is critical to the future of our maturing democracy.
The power of the South African diaspora
The South African diaspora constitutes a significant force that must remain active in the political landscape back home. While physical distance may separate you from daily life in South Africa, the issues and decisions made by the government impact you, your family and your heritage. By participating in the electoral process, you can actively contribute to shaping policies and the country’s trajectory.
Registration weekend on 26 to 28 January 2024
Registration abroad is continuous at South Africa’s 120 foreign missions, including high commissions, embassies and consulates worldwide, during office hours.
However, a special two-day voter registration event for South African citizens abroad will take place at all South African foreign missions between 26 and 27 February 2024, depending on religious days. For example, in countries where the weekend is a Saturday and Sunday, the registration event will take place on Saturday 27 January and Sunday 28 January 2024. In countries where the Friday and Saturday are religious days, the two special days designated will be Friday 26 January and Saturday 27 January 2024.
A full list of South Africa’s missions is available on the website of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at www.dirco.gov.za/south-african-representation-abroad.
Eligible voters are encouraged to check with their nearest mission on the registration dates and times, and reminded that they must take both their South African identity document (green ID book, smart ID card or valid temporary ID) and their South African passport with them to the mission in order to register.
Online registration: a convenient and accessible option
Given the importance of involving citizens abroad in the electoral process, South Africa’s IEC has, for the first time, enabled an online registration facility, allowing South Africans living abroad to easily register for the 2024 National Elections. This online registration system is a convenient and accessible option, ensuring that distance does not become a barrier to your participation in the democratic process.
How to register online
The online registration process for South Africans abroad is straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Visit the IEC website: Go to the official website of the IEC of South Africa at www.elections.org.za. The IEC is the entity responsible for organising and overseeing elections in the country.
2. Select ‘Register to vote abroad’: Navigate to the ‘Register to vote abroad’ menu item on the website home page. There, you will find information specifically tailored for South Africans living abroad.
3. Complete the online form: Fill out the online registration form with accurate and up-to-date information. This typically includes personal details, contact information, proof of citizenship and the selection of the South African mission abroad where you intend voting.
4. Provide supporting documents: Upload the necessary supporting documents, including copies of both your South African identity document and passport. Ensure that these documents comply with the specified requirements.
5. Verify and submit: Review your information carefully to ensure accuracy. Once satisfied, submit the online registration form.
6. Confirmation and follow-up: After submission, you will receive a confirmation email acknowledging your registration. The IEC may ask you for any additional information or clarification.
Importance of voter registration
Voter registration is the first crucial step towards making your voice heard in the 2024 National Elections. It ensures you are included in the national voters’ roll, enabling you to cast your vote in the upcoming elections. Your participation is not only a right but also a responsibility, as it directly impacts the democratic principles that form the foundation of South Africa’s governance.
South Africa’s 2024 National Elections provides an opportunity for citizens to make a choice of policy provisions and to prioritise among them for the country. Various pressing issues, such as economic development, social justice, healthcare and education will be at the forefront of the political discourse. As a member of the South African diaspora, your unique perspective and experiences can contribute to a more holistic and inclusive decision-making process.
Engagement and connection
Living abroad may sometimes lead to a sense of detachment from the day-to-day affairs of one’s home country. However, it is essential to recognise that your engagement in the electoral process can foster positive change. The decisions made by the elected representatives will impact the lives of all South Africans, regardless of their geographical location.
As a South African living abroad, the 2024 National Elections offer you a unique opportunity to actively participate in shaping the future of your homeland. Through online voter registration, you can overcome the geographical barriers and contribute to the democratic process. Your vote is not just a right but a powerful tool to influence positive change, advocate for the issues that matter to you, and contribute to the continued development of South Africa.
Register to vote, either online today or in person at your South African mission on 26 to 28 January 2024, and let your voice echo across borders, resonating with the spirit of democracy that binds us all. It’s your democracy, own it!
For more information, visit www.elections.org.za or contact [email protected]
