South Africans who cannot make it to voting stations on 4 November have until 17:00 today to apply for a special vote in the upcoming local government elections.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has set the Monday deadline for applications, with the polls just three weeks away.
The commission says special votes exist to help people who would struggle to vote on election day itself, whether they will be away from their voting districts, work in essential services, or face physical challenges getting to a station.
Two ways to cast a special vote
Voters can choose between two options. The first allows people who cannot physically get to a voting station to receive a home visit from IEC officials. However, this visit must happen at a registered address within the voting district where the voter is registered.
The second option lets voters who can get to their voting station but cannot make it on election day cast their ballot at their registered station during the two days before 4 November.
How to apply
Applications can be submitted through the IEC website at www.elections.org.za or by sending an SMS with your identity number to 32249, which costs R1. The SMS option only works for voting station applications, not home visits.
Voters can also hand-deliver a special vote application form to their local IEC office. The forms cannot be emailed or faxed, but someone else can drop off a completed form on your behalf. National and provincial IEC offices do not accept these applications.
Record number of candidates
The elections have drawn an unprecedented 136 790 candidates who met all the requirements to run for office. They will compete for seats across eight metropolitan municipalities, 44 district municipalities and 205 local municipalities.
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has urged South Africans to turn out and vote, with a particular focus on young and first-time voters.
“Every vote matters and helps to keep our democracy strong,” Ntshavheni said during a recent post-cabinet briefing. She also called on political parties and independent candidates to follow the Electoral Code of Conduct and show political tolerance.
Get your ID now
The Department of Home Affairs has reminded eligible voters to collect their identity documents before election day. Minister Leon Schreiber says the department has expanded Smart ID services to more than 450 bank branches across the country.
“A valid ID document holds the key to democratic participation in the upcoming elections,” Schreiber said. He encouraged South Africans to use the improved services and not wait until the last minute.
People who need to replace lost or damaged IDs can visit Home Affairs offices or participating bank branches. Visit myhomeaffairsonline.dha.gov.za to find the nearest location.
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