IEC ready to take on elections

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in Umjindi says it’s more than ready to take on today’s elections.

According to Solomon Lukhele, IEC project coordinator in the municipality, more 30 000 people are expected to be out today to cast their votes in the more than 40 stations. He said voters can expect efficient service and short queues.

“We have 31 800 registered voters and 41 stations will be open to accommodate them. The number includes those who applied for special voting,” said Lukhele.

For those who will not go to polls today, special voting allowed them to make their mark yesterday and Monday. Election officials visited them at their homes, retirement centres and hospitals.

There were two categories – home visits and special voting at a registered station.

For a home visit, officials visited those who had successfully applied due to physical infirmity, disability or pregnancy.

Special voting at registered stations was for people who will not be in their voting district today. This took place on May 5 and 6 from 09:00 and 17:00, and were open to everyone who applied to cast a special vote.

Lukhele say counts were expected to be concluded by Thursday morning.