Voting is a precious right as the victory over apartheid and the right to vote was not an easy achievement, writes President Jacob Zuma
South Africa will go to the polls today (Wednesday) in the local government elections, which are poised to be the largest and to be a resounding success.
Voting is a precious right as the victory over apartheid and the right to vote by all South Africans was not an easy achievement.
We are encouraged that for the first time in our history, this election will see 200 political parties and over 61 000 candidates participating, which reflects the maturity of our democracy that continues to reflect the will of the people.
Of importance is that 2016 also marks the 20th year of our constitution, which makes the election another key celebration of our hard-won freedom and democracy as South Africans.
We congratulate all the special voters who cast their ballots. We urge all 26 million registered voters across the length and breadth of our country to speak, give direction and refresh the mandate of the third sphere of government through voting.
All registered voters must celebrate democracy and freedom by turning out to vote today. Government reminds employers and schools that today is a public holiday. All registered voters must be released to exercise their democratic right.
We urge all stakeholders to co-operate with the Independent Electoral Commission and to work together to ensure that all people act within the framework of the constitution and the law.
Government has put measures in place to ensure that all citizens vote freely and safely. Citizens are encouraged to report any incidents of intimidation to the law enforcement offices, and the police will surely act swiftly to bring all perpetrators to book.
Firm action will be taken against anyone who breaks the law or who protests outside the norms of responsible, democratic protest.
Security will remain highly visible to ensure no one is prevented from exercising their hard-worn democratic right of voting or participating in any political process leading to the elections.
I have authorised the employment of more than 2 000 members of the SANDF to assist the SAPS to maintain law and order in the run-up to and during the elections in all nine provinces. They will be on duty until the 10th of August.
The Department of Home Affairs has announced that it has extended working hours to enable citizens to collect their identity documents or to apply for emergency temporary IDs.
Election Bureau