Politician posts photograph of marked ballot paper online

Election fever has struck Newcastle, culminating in a photograph of a completed ballot posted on a social media site by a local politician.

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) announced they strongly support voters expressing their support for democracy and the elections through social media and ‘selfies’, but these should be within the law.

According to IEC spokesperson, Libisi Maphanga, voters may take photographs of themselves outside the voting stations or of their inked thumbs to show their participation.

“However, voters are reminded that it is an offence to take and/or publish photographs that reveal a person’s vote on a ballot paper. Offenders will be liable to a fine or imprisonment not exceeding one year,” he said.

When asked, the politician said had not known it was illegal and would be deleting the post immediately.

Joseph Thusi, Regional Manager, District 25, Amajuba IEC said if it was brought to the attention of the IEC and if sufficient supporting evidence was given, they would be forced to act.

“The core of the IEC is to protect the secrecy of the vote,” said Mr Thusi. “Posting a photograph on social media sites of a marked ballot does not respect the secrecy of the vote.”

Voters are urged not to take photographs inside the voting stations, as they could face serious consequences.