Special voting delays raise concerns as election observers prepare to monitor polls
Election observers prepare to monitor voting and counting ahead of Wednesday's elections.
Sara-Jayne Makwala King
Picture: Emmanuel Croset/AFP
Emmanuel Croset/AFP
The late delivery of ballot papers on the first day of special voting for the municipal elections on Monday has raised concerns about the Electoral Commission's readiness ahead of Wednesday's local government elections.
217 voting stations across the Cape Metro failed to open on time on Monday because ballot papers had not arrived.
The IEC says it was down to ballot papers having to be reprinted following a Constitutional Court ruling affecting the ANC.
Speaking to Lester Kiewit on CapeTalk, election observer Buyiswa Jack explained how observers help ensure elections are free and fair.
Jack said observers check that voting stations have everything they need and open on time.
"We want free and fair and credible elections. That is our objective."
Observers arrive at voting stations early in the morning before the polling stations open and monitor proceedings throughout the day.
Jack explained that teams submit reports every two hours.
"We report every two hours, and that report goes to Kagiso and the Council of Churches, and they take it up with the relevant organisation or IEC."
Observers also remain at voting stations after polls close to keep a close eye on the counting of ballots.
Meanwhile, voters who were unable to cast their special votes on Monday have another opportunity today (Tuesday).
Those who miss both special voting days can still vote tomorrow (Wednesday), 4 November.