In a relatively smooth and well coordinated international process, more than 16,000 South Africans resident across the world (majority of whom are whites who left the country after 1994) managed to cast their votes. Back in South Africa, more than 84,000 people are reported to have applied and been registered for special voting for 20th and 21st April, special voting is designed to cater for the aged, disabled, pregnant and other special cases. The voting process has started with some glitches at some polling stations including shortages of envelopes, special voting forms, names not appearing in the register, shortages in IEC staff thus long queueing times.
In Mpumangala it has been reported that a ballot box was found by a roadside. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has launched an urgent investigation to determine the authenticity of these ballots, the police escort accompanying the van and the general circumstances surrounding this incident. Despite the relatively high standards of the South African elections, it is evident that an election without glitches is still a dream in Africa.
Gauteng and KwaZulu Natal present the most interesting scenarios thus higher media focus– Gauteng has the highest number of registered voters (5.5million) and KwaZulu Natal (KZN) has attracted the highest number of observers due to the history of violence. The weather, although cold and rainy in most of the country is not expected to deter the eager voters. The IEC reports that it is expecting an 80% voter turnout. Results of the elections are expected over the weekend.
A new phenomenon, highly inspired by the US Obama campaign is the youth vote. Political parties have gone out of their way to reach out to the youth through the use of electronic media including facebook. Youth participation is a critical factor in building and consolidating democracy in any society.
Campaigns ended over the weekend with mass rallies by all political parties across throughout the country. Although the results of the election are pretty much certain – the opposition is fighting to ensure that the ANC does not maintain the two thirds majority to avoid what some political analysts are terming the possible zanufication of South Africa.
NCA in collaboration with its partner KwaZulu Natal Christian Council (KNZCC) will be observing the elections in the KZN province.
Moreblessings Chidaushe
Durban, 21st April, 2009
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