The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is commemorating Youth Month as part of its continuing engagement and voter encouragement among young people, and they’re headed to Paarl.
According to the commission it has been engaging with young people through various initiatives intended to encourage their participation in electoral democracy and democratic processes. These were hosted by the commission in partnership with key stakeholders such as the Western Cape Education Department.
On Saturday 17 June, in partnership with the South African Blind Youth Organisation (SAYBO), the IEC will co-host a youth event at the Athlone School for the Blind in Bellville South. This engagement will not only highlight the importance of participation, but also provide an opportunity to show how youth in the disability sector can raise their issues and challenges of marginalisation. The commission will offer the use of the Universal Ballot Template to assist with the secrecy of the vote during the AGM elections of SAYBO.
IEC youth activities, in collaboration with various stakeholders, will also take place in the Cape Winelands, at the Drakenstein Municipality youth day event in Paarl East on 16 and 17 June.
Other events are intented for the Overberg, in Theewaterskloof on 16 June, as well as the Central Karoo Youth Day Interaction in Oudtshoorn, also on 16 June.
This includes the West Coast, in partnership with the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, in Vredendal on 20 June, and Lambert’s Bay on 21 June and Citrusdal on 22 June.
“It is important for youth not to give up their right to choose elected leaders, to call out prospective parties and candidates on how they will respond to the challenges faced by young people, and to hold representatives accountable,” said Michael Hendrickse, head of the IEC in the province.
“To do that effectively, you must be registered and vote.”
Young people are encouraged to attend the youth events and to bring along their green bar-coded ID book or smart ID card to register, or if their residential address has changed, to update their details on the Voters’ Roll.
IEC staff will be there to immediately assist with the paperless process using the IEC Voter Management Device. Voter registration or updating details can also be done online at www.registertovote.elections.org.za
