This coming weekend offers yet another opportunity for citizens to exercise their democratic rights, and register to vote for the upcoming Municipal Ward by-elections on 11 September.
Several voting stations will be open on Saturday 27 July and Sunday 28 July, between 08:00 and 17:00, to allow eligible voters to register for the upcoming by-election, as well as current voters to check and update their registration details.
The Electoral Commission (IEC) outlines what a by-election is, and why it is so important for citizens to vote.
“A ward by-election takes place as a result of the death, resignation or expulsion of a ward councillor or the dissolution of a municipal council. When there is a ward vacancy in your area, it means you have an opportunity to elect a new ward councillor or to stand as a candidate to be elected as a new ward councillor of your area,” the IEC explained.
“Municipalities are the closest sphere of government to communities,” the Electoral Commission said, “and ward councillors represent their communities in municipal councils, hence it’s important to participate in their election.”
Municipalities are responsible for service delivery to communities. “Your participation enables you to choose the ward councillor who will represent your interests and those of your community in your local municipality,” the commission said. “It is the best way to make your voice heard and make a positive input on the issues that concern you.”
Free State IEC Communication and Stakeholder Liaison, Mmathabo Rasengane, told Bloemfontein Courant that a list of candidates is not yet available, but will be soon. “Voters should take their identity document with them – either a green barcoded ID book, a smartcard ID, or a valid Temporary ID Certificate,” explained Rasengane.
“They will also need to complete their physical home address on registration or provide sufficient particularities of their place of residence,” she added.
Documented proof of address is not required.
She reminded voters that it is a criminal offence to register and vote in a ward in which they do not reside.
Special voting will take place on 10 September 2024 between 08:00 and 17:00. It requires voters to apply at their local IEC office during office hours between 26 August and 30 August 2024.
Wards for where by-elections will take place:
Warren Hawkins
