The IEC and law enforcement agencies have been praised for their effective management of the 2024 elections in the North West, ensuring a mostly smooth process despite a few disruptions.

Long queues at voting stations reflected high voter turnout and engagement, showing the public’s enthusiasm to participate in the electoral process.

North West political analyst Kedibone Phago commended the coordination between the IEC and the police. He highlighted that both agencies went above and beyond to provide the necessary support and safety for voters, even as queues persisted past midnight.

“My personal experience was positive,” Phago said. “I voted late in the day, around five o’clock, and although there was a long queue, it only took about 20 minutes for me to cast my vote. The queue was moving efficiently, and the overall organisation was commendable.”

Other voters in the province echoed this satisfaction. Jacob Selebogo Moabole (66) reflected on the significance of the day. “I am happy to make a change with my vote. Today feels like 1994 to me – the first time I cast my vote. I feel that the wind of change is coming to the country.”

Despite the general efficiency of the elections, a few incidents were reported. These included the theft of a military tent lent to the IEC and several protests, such as a fight between party members and an IEC station manager surviving a car accident on their way to a voting station.

Some opposition parties are, however, unhappy with the voting process and have vowed to take their grievances up with the IEC. Both the DA and FF Plus in North West say many election officials were insufficiently trained.

As vote counting continues, political parties anxiously await the results hoping for favourable outcomes. A total of 1,698 voting stations were open for residents to cast their votes. A total of 1,765,069 registered voters could choose between 38 political parties contesting for 38 seats in the North West Provincial Legislature.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg