IEC Confident in Logistical Integrity As Elections Approach Amidst Scepticism from MK Party
The Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has refuted allegations of vote rigging in KwaZulu-Natal, condemning threats made against its officials and reiterating its commitment to a transparent electoral process. This comes just days before South Africa heads to the polls on 29 May for National and Provincial Elections.
Logistical Preparations Clarified
Responding to the vote rigging allegations, which have circulated widely on social media, the IEC expressed “great concern” over the misunderstanding surrounding videos depicting its storage sites in Chesterville and Hammersdale.
“We wish to clarify that the videos depict our planned logistical arrangements and storage of election materials as we prepare for the first day of special voting on 27 May 2024. These are legitimate and authorised arrangements for the distribution of ballot papers and other bulk material,” stated the commission.
The IEC further explained that security measures involving the South African Police Service (SAPS) have been meticulously planned. “The planned security measures were that the trucks distributing ballot papers are escorted by SAPS to the local storage site. These storage sites will then be guarded on a 24-hours basis. This arrangement ensures that the storage sites are protected against unauthorised entry, burglary, and tampering with election materials,” the commission affirmed.
Importantly, no political party members will be granted access to these storage facilities, ensuring an impartial and secure handling of election materials.
“No party will be allowed to gain entry into the warehouse premises of the commission. We instruct the leadership of MK party to immediately leave the warehouse as the commission urgently needs to finalise the distribution of election material,” the IEC said.
Threats Against Officials Condemned
In addition to debunking the vote rigging allegations, the IEC also condemned threats made against its officials. A recent incident saw an IEC official being disturbed at home regarding stored electoral materials at a Baptist Church polling station in Chesterville.
“Bulk material is voting booths, voting station signage/banners and new unfolded ballot boxes. This bulk electoral material was taken to Cato Manor police station in eThekwini, in KwaZulu-Natal. It is part of the logistical plan for the commission to deliver bulk material to voting stations ahead of Election Day,” the commission clarified.
Strongly condemning the threats, the IEC stated, “No party nor its representatives have authority to gain access to private homes of electoral staff. Worse still, no party nor its representatives may take control of election material without being authorised.”
The commission assured the public that additional measures have been implemented to secure various storage sites and confirmed that all election materials are in its possession and ready for distribution.
MK Party’s Response
In sharp contrast, the MK Party claims that the IEC has failed to address serious allegations of electoral malpractices favouring the ANC. According to the MK Party, suspicious truck movements and stored materials allegedly intended for ANC members have raised significant concerns.
MK Party spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndlela, called for an urgent press conference by the IEC: “The MK Party calls upon the IEC to convene an urgent press conference to address these allegations and clarify the security measures in place for electoral materials.”
The MK Party contends that these incidents reflect a systemic issue undermining public trust in the IEC, emphasising the party’s commitment to a fair electoral process.
Government’s Stance
Amid these tensions, President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to address the nation at 6 pm this evening. The President’s address is expected to touch upon the electoral issues and reaffirm the commitment to conducting free and fair elections.
_______________________________________
Central News Weekly Edition 054: Download the latest special edition of Central News Print and Digital Newspaper. Top Story : “National Results Operation Centre (ROC) for the 2024 National Elections Unveiled in Midrand”.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
________________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza