Despite the high number of registered voters in South Africa, concerns still remain for voters in Ward 1 (Plattekloof, Panorama, Monte Vista, Welgelegen) who still need to re-register. The last round of voter registrations was held over the weekend of Saturday 3 February and Sunday 4 February.
Cheryl Visser, Ward 1 councillor, says concerns regarding voter registration in her area remain especially in Plattekloof.
“I am pleased to report that the recent second registration weekend was largely successful, with a total of 523 voters registering or re-registering. Despite challenges such as load shedding and extreme heat, the operations at our four voting stations proceeded smoothly, and we had approximately 305 individuals verify their registrations.
Concerns
“However, a lingering concern persists in Plattekloof, where some residents are still not aware that they are no longer registered to vote if they cast their ballots at the cancelled World Estate Voting Station previously. Despite concerted efforts to communicate this issue through various channels, including coverage in the local newspaper, information drops by the IEC, visits to retirement homes and residential complexes, and social media posts, not all Plattekloof residents have received the crucial message,” says Visser.
Her concerns have also been raised at a Subcouncil 3 meeting on a previous occassion.
“It is disheartening that despite our collective efforts, there are still individuals who remain uninformed about the need to re-register with the IEC to be eligible to vote. We have consistently emphasised this matter through different platforms, and yet, there is a segment of our community that may be disenfranchised if they do not take prompt action.”
Residents can check their voter registration status by sending their ID number in an SMS to 32810, or visit the IEC’s online registration platform at https://registertovote.elections.org.za/voter-online-registration/overview
“It is essential to emphasise that voters can only participate in the upcoming election if they are registered and at their designated voting station. Time is of the essence,” says Visser.
Ward 5 registration
In Ward 5 (Edgemead, Bothasig, Richwood and Burgundy Estate) the process also went smoothly, and no incidents or major issues were reported, says Miquette Temlett, ward councillor.
“The DA in Ward 5 had a presence at all the voting districts in the ward except for one to assist voters in their effort to practise their democratic right of voting. The enthusiasm displayed by the community underscores the significance of active civic participation,” says Temlett.
She says volunteers worked diligently to provide assistance and information to individuals from various backgrounds.
Temlett says the success of the voter registration weekend serves as a testament to the community’s dedication to shaping the future through active civic involvement.
The date for the upcoming provincial and national elections is yet to be confirmed. According to the IEC more than 27,4 million people have already registered to vote in this year’s general election.
