Damaged ballot box in Montclair sparks election security concerns
A damaged ballot box was found at a voting station in Montclair. The IEC is looking into the matter.
QUESTIONS are being raised over the intergrity of the voting process following reports of a damaged ballot box foumd at Montclair Senior Primary yesterday ( November 3).
The KZN Electoral Commission of South Africa has confirmed receiving a complaint regarding the incident, however details surrounding the circumstances remain unclear.
A video circulating on social media shows a sealed ballot box with damage on its side, leaving an opening large enough for a hand to fit through.
A man in the video is heard confirming that the ballot box was the one used on Tuesday (November 3) during special voting.
Spokesperson for the IEC Thabani Ngwira said the incident was reported to the IEC.
He said the matter will be addresed during a media briefing scheduled for 12:00 today, where further clarity is expected.
Also read:Montclair CPF confirms enhanced security plans
Ward councillor Norman Gilbert has criticised the handling of the ballot box, describing it as a serious breach of electoral security.
Gilbert claims that ballot boxes were exposed to moisture and sustained damage.
“The handling of the ballot box at Montclair Senior Primary falls far below the standard required for a free and credible election. That a presiding officer could allow ballots to be exposed to moisture and damage reflects a profound breach of electoral security,” said Gilbert.
He said the DA has lodged a formal objection with the IEC. He said the party’s leadership at the National Results Operations Centre is actively intervening.
“We insist that the IEC and party liaisons handle the sealed box currently at the ICC with absolute scrutiny. Voters deserve to know that their democratic mandate is protected, not neglected,” said Gilbert.
As voting resumed this morning in many voting stations in Ward 64, 66 and 68, there has been no violence reported so far.
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