Ensuring Voter Registration and Participation for Municipal By-elections in South Africa

Municipal by-elections are scheduled to take place on 27 September 2023 in four wards across KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and the North West. These by-elections are being held due to various circumstances, including the resignation or death of councilors. To ensure maximum voter participation, the Electoral Commission has arranged voter registration sessions on 12 and 13 August 2023.

Voter Registration

Voting stations in the affected wards will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the registration weekend to provide ample time for eligible citizens to register. Those who have already registered can use this opportunity to verify or update their details. To register, voters must bring valid identification, such as a green barcoded ID book, a smartcard ID, or a Temporary ID Certificate. Additionally, they will need to provide their physical home address or sufficient particulars of their place of residence. It’s important to note that documented proof of address is not required.

Individuals unable to attend the registration weekend can still register and verify their details at their local Electoral Commission (IEC) office on weekdays during office hours. However, the IEC reminds citizens that registering and voting in a ward where they do not ordinarily reside is a criminal offense.

Special Voting Provisions

Special voting provisions will be available for those who cannot vote on the by-election day. On 26 September 2023, voting stations will open for special voting and home visits from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To apply for a special vote, voters can visit their local IEC office, register on the IEC’s website, or send an SMS with their identity number to 32249 (charged at R1). Note that the SMS application is only available for voting at a station and not home visits.

Designated Voting Stations

Each ward has designated voting stations, such as schools, community halls, and churches, where citizens can cast their ballots. The IEC encourages voters to familiarize themselves with their ward’s voting stations to ensure a smooth registration and voting process.

Specific Wards and Registered Voters

In KwaZulu-Natal, the by-election will take place in Ward 13 of the uMhlathuze Municipality, which has 6,837 registered voters. Limpopo’s Blouberg Municipality will hold elections in Ward 11, with 4,473 registered voters. The North West will have elections in Ward 03 of both the Madibeng and Maquassi Hills Municipalities, with 4,410 and 2,956 registered voters, respectively.

Contact Information

For further information on the by-elections, voters can contact their local IEC office during office hours or visit the Commission’s website. The IEC is also active on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, providing updates and relevant information regarding the elections.

Fostering Civic Engagement

The upcoming by-elections are an essential exercise in democracy, and the Electoral Commission is working diligently to guarantee that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to participate. By making the registration process accessible and accommodating those who require special voting arrangements, the IEC is playing a crucial role in fostering civic engagement and ensuring that the democratic process remains robust and inclusive.