South Africa Extends Special Vote Application Deadline Amid Surge in Demand

South Africa's Electoral Commission (IEC) has extended the deadline forspecial voteonline applications until midnight on Friday, May 3, 2024. The decision comes while the IEC faces an overwhelming demand from registered voters seeking to cast their ballots before the official election day on May 8, 2024.

Why this matters: The extension of the special vote application deadline reflects the IEC's commitment to ensuring that all eligible voters have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process, which is essential for the legitimacy and credibility of the election outcome. The high demand for special votes also highlights the enthusiasm and determination of The high demand for special votes also highlights the enthusiasm and determination ofSouth African citizens to exercise their right to vote, which can have a significant impact on the country's future political landscape.

The special vote category accommodates two groups of voters: those who cannot travel to their designated polling stations because of infirmity or disability, and those who wish to vote early for any reason. As of Friday afternoon, the IEC had received over 1.4 million applications, with the online portal processing a staggering 17,000applications per minutethroughout the day.

IEC Deputy CEO Mawethu Mosery stressed the importance of the special vote process, stating, "Everyone who needs a special vote can still apply; the deadline is this Friday, May 3rd, at 17:00 hours. So, please apply." Mosery assured voters that the deadline extension will not disrupt the preparations for the upcoming elections.

Special votes are set to take place on May 27 and 28, 2024, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. During this period, election officials will visit the homes of registered voters who are physically unable to travel. Moreover, any registered voter who wishes to cast their ballot early can do so at their designated voting station.

The IEC has clarified that there is no automatic age-based qualification for special votes, countering a widely circulated message claiming that voters over 60 can cast their votes on the designated special voting days. The Commission has distanced itself from this misinformation, emphasizing that special votes are available to all voters upon application by the deadline, regardless of age.

Eligible voters can apply for a special vote by visiting the IEC website (www.iec.org.za) and going to the "Voters" tab. By clicking on "Apply for a special vote" in the middle column, users can begin the onlineapplication process. The IEC encourages voters to verify their registration status by SMSing their ID number to 32810 or calling the IEC's contact center at 012 622 5700.

The extension of the special vote application deadline demonstrates the IEC's commitment to ensuring that all eligible voters have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. As South Africa gears up for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, the Commission remains dedicated to facilitating free, fair, and inclusive elections that reflect the will of the people.

With just 25 days remaining until the general elections, the surge in special vote applications highlights the enthusiasm and determination of South African citizens to make their voices heard. The nation stands at this momentous juncture, the IEC's efforts to accommodate voters' needs and ensure maximum participation will play a vital role in shaping the country's future.

Key Takeaways

• IEC extends special vote online application deadline to May 3, 2024, midnight.
• Over 1.4 million special vote applications received, with 17,000 processed per minute.
• Special votes are for those with infirmity/disability or who wish to vote early.
• Special votes will take place on May 27-28, 2024, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• Apply for special vote on IEC website (www.iec.org.za) by May 3, 2024, deadline.