Cape Town — The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) revealed that South Africans living abroad are gearing up to vote, with more than 78 000 South Africans expected to vote.
The Commission revealed there was a record number of voters living abroad, with London providing the highest population of voters, with 24 000. South Africa is one of the few countries that allows expats to vote, with further voting stations in London, UK, The Hague in the Netherlands, Canberra in Australia and Dubai in the UAE, SABC News reported.
International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor says it’s all systems go for those who will vote abroad on the 18th and 19th of May.
Mamabolo: Given high numbers of expected voters in London at 24 194, this station will operate on both the 18 and 19 May 2024.
— IEC South Africa (@IECSouthAfrica) May 14, 2024
The IEC is working with the International Relations and Co-operation Department and they have dispatched voting materials including voting booths, ballot boxes, stationery packs and the relevant lists of approved voters.
IEC deputy chief electoral officer Masego Sheburi says they will be opening voting stations in nine countries on the 17th of May. Sheburi says that the IEC wants the polls to go smoothly.
“The electoral body further says after the voting process, the ballots will be transported through a secure channel back to the national office of the electoral commission for counting. The votes will be counted in the presence of agents representing contestants.’ Sheburi said.
Mamabolo: Voting stations will be open from 07:00am to 19:00pm, allowing 76 580 voters to exercise their right to vote in South Africa’s 2024 National Elections. On both voting days abroad, the Electoral Commission will keep extended hours to assist voters with any enquiries.
— IEC South Africa (@IECSouthAfrica) May 14, 2024
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
