On September 8, 2023, Hon. Basetsana S.R Dantjie, the Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature, will host a Provincial Speakers’ Forum in the Madibeng Local Municipality Chamber. This gathering aims to promote voter education, registration, and campaigns for various municipalities.
Engaging the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC)
The forum comprises Speakers from diverse local and district municipalities, with a special emphasis on engaging the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). The IEC will participate in fruitful discussions and presentations about voter education and registration, ensuring that citizens are well-informed and fully prepared to exercise their right to vote.
Department of Home Affairs Presentation
In addition to the IEC’s involvement, the Department of Home Affairs has been invited to the meeting to present on Identity Documents (ID) Campaigns and the issue of uncollected Identity Documents. This topic is of great importance, as having a valid ID is a prerequisite for exercising one’s right to vote, and the uncollected IDs represent a significant concern for the democratic process.
Collaborative Event
The event is expected to attract a diverse group of participants, including various Speakers, senior management from all municipalities, and officials from both the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) and the Department of Home Affairs. This array of attendees highlights the collaborative nature of the event and emphasizes the commitment of these entities to work together for the common good.
Accessibility and Transparency
The meeting will be live-streamed on the North West Provincial Legislature’s Facebook page, granting interested individuals the opportunity to participate remotely and stay informed about the proceedings. Members of the media are encouraged to attend the meeting, further solidifying the commitment to openness and ensuring that the discussions and outcomes are shared with the public at large.
Fostering Collaboration for Public Engagement and Democracy
This upcoming forum represents a crucial milestone in fostering collaboration among various entities within South Africa. By prioritizing voter education, registration, and Identity Document campaigns, these municipal leaders are working to ensure that citizens have the necessary tools and information to participate in the democratic process. The significance of this event cannot be overstated, as it heralds a promising future for South African democracy and the continued partnership among its various municipalities and organizations.