DA says will monitor IEC to ensure ruling on opening more voting stations aboard practically implemented
The Electoral Court handed down an order in favour of the DA for voting to be allowed at honorary consulates around the world.
Democratic Alliance (DA) flag. Picture: X/@DA_Gauteng
JOHANNESBURG - The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it would be monitoring the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) to ensure the Electoral Court’s ruling on opening more voting stations abroad is practically implemented.
The court handed down an order in favour of the DA for voting to be allowed at honorary consulates around the world.
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The DA’s application came on the back of South Africans in Perth, Australia, not being able to cast their ballots at an honorary consulate near them, but having to travel to the capital, Canberra.
The court has also reviewed and set the IEC’s decision aside, meaning the commission must set up voting stations at these consulates.
DA Federal Council chairperson, Helen Zille, said her party was delighted with the court’s decision.
"That is consistent with the Electoral Act, and it enables far more South Africans living abroad to vote in this crucial election. The DA has followed up with the IEC to make sure that they are making proper arrangements with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to ensure that every single consulate across the world will be able to act as a voting station for South Africans living in those countries."