Voter registration weekend
IEC lauds its online registration platform after 'successful' weekend
The IEC on Monday said it was pleased that over 1.7 million South Africans registered on Saturday and Sunday.
The IEC’s voter management devices experienced glitches with its mapping functionality on Saturday, but the issues were resolved and systems proceeded to function seamlessly.
The IEC's Thabo Masemola said they held two successful meetings with the provincial authorities and had identified some potential hotspots.
Home Affairs offices are expected to be open to issue identity cards this weekend.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) will introduce the Voter Management Device (VMD) which will replace the old "zip-zip" devices used for voter registration. It is said to be a technological improvement. Here’s an explainer on how it will be used and also how to register online. #Elections2021 #RegistrationWeekend
Before South Africans head to the polls on 1 November, Health Minister Joe Phaahla said government would be working closely with the Independent Electoral Commission and political parties.
The commission was locked in meetings over the weekend following last week's judgment by the Constitutional Court, which ruled the elections must take place between 27 October and 1 November this year.
Usually, the IEC holds two registration weekends just ahead of polling day, however, the commission said that it took the decision due to budget constraints.
It was a busy weekend at the IEC's 22,925 voting stations where young and old came out in their numbers to either register or update their details.
The Independent Electoral Commission has voiced concerns about the dismal number of young people who have registered.
Registration stations in Katlehong on the East Rand, Vuwani in Limpopo and Marikana in the North West had to be closed due to service delivery protests on Saturday.
The ruling party has given an update on its state of readiness. The ANC says it will embark on an intensive voter registration drive through visits to various communities.
The IEC has called on eligible voters to go to their local polling stations and register.
The ANC conducted a voter registration drive at the Tshwane University of Technology, handing out T-shirts and pamphlets, but not everyone was pleased to see them.
The IEC says it's missing addresses for almost 16 million voters.
IEC Chief Electoral Officer Mosotho Moepya says voter registration has proceeded well and encouraged eligible voters to ensure that they are registered.
Several Independent Electoral Commission voter registration stations across Cape Town have reported the bulk of new registrations are from young people.
Some people visiting registration centres have told EWN they want change in their communities.
IEC staff were forced to set up outside the centre after poor planning resulted in a double booking.