The bulk of South Africa’s more than 23 000 voting stations opened by 07:00 today for citizens to cast their ballots in the country’s seventh general election.

Masego Sheburi, the deputy chief electoral officer of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), provided a comprehensive update on the progress from the commission’s results centre in Midrand during lunchtime.

“Ninety-three percent (93%) of the 23 292 voting stations were reported open, both physically and online. The remainder, delayed due to material handling issues and security escorts, opened within the hour.”

Sheburi noted the enthusiasm of South Africans, with many forming queues even before the official opening time.

Despite the overall smooth start, there were isolated incidents. Delays in the delivery of ballot papers affected several areas in Johannesburg, particularly in Sandton, Dunkeld, and Hyde Park. “The IEC staff’s innovative attempts to ensure timely delivery unintentionally caused these delays.”

In the Eastern Cape, five stations were initially unable to open due to community protests but were later operational with the help of the South African Police Department. Similarly, in Ethekwini and Mzi Wan, protests caused delays beyond nine o’clock.

‘Adequate supplies were confirmed to be available’

Despite these challenges, Sheburi assured that all 27 million registered voters would have the opportunity to cast their ballots. “Adequate supplies, including 90 million ballot papers, were confirmed to be available.”

The IEC also reminded voters of the importance of voting at their registered stations unless they had given prior notice to vote elsewhere.

As voting continued, Sheburi thanked those who had already voted and encouraged the remaining voters to do so before stations close at 21:00 tonight.

OFM News mvh