Elections 2024: Threats to disrupt elections condemned

Despite some threats to disrupt the upcoming general elections, the IEC in KZN is forging ahead to ensure the voting process runs smoothly across every district.

The commission, through various law enforcement agencies, continues to monitor ‘hot spot’ areas amid efforts to ensure the safety of voters as they head to the polls in two weeks.

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This as the electoral commission gears up for the special voting process on 27 and 28 May followed by the official voting day on 29 May.

Addressing media in Richards Bay on Monday, IEC KZN electoral officer Ntombifuthi Masinga warned that it is illegal and a criminal offence to prevent citizens from exercising their right to vote.

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“In every district, there are one or two areas where people who are aggrieved by various issues threaten to disrupt voting processes.

“Very often when there are elections, there will be instances where people will use the elections to voice their grievances,” said Masinga.

“However, denying anyone their right to vote is illegal and legal action can be taken against perpetrators.”

She said they have been holding regular meetings with the security cluster to ensure safety during elections.

“But our [mandate] as the IEC is to ensure the elections run smoothly and it is the role of law enforcement to respond to acts of intimidation and ensure the safety of voters.”

Masinga further encouraged registered voters, including the youth, to make their mark come election day.

“We have seen a decrease in voter turnout election after election in the last few years,” she said.

“But we believe in civil participation and that every South African citizen who is 18 years and older has a right to vote.

“It is not just an act of placing a mark on a ballot paper; you will be exercising your right as outlined in the Constitution. But if you are registered and decide not to vote, you are giving that power to others to decide for you,” she said.

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