The
Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has exciting news to share as it proudly
unveils a groundbreaking initiative in South Africa's electoral history – the
introduction of an online registration facility for South African citizens
residing outside the country.
Voters encouraged to use online facility
In
a significant stride towards inclusivity, the newly launched online
registration portal system has already garnered the interest of over 18,469
South African citizens in 101 countries around the globe who are keen on
participating in the upcoming 2024 elections. The system, operational since
December 2023, marks a pivotal shift from the traditional voting methods
employed in the 2019 elections, where approximately 21,000 South Africans cast
their votes abroad, including 7,023 newly registered voters. With this
innovative approach, the Commission aims to attract a larger participation of
citizens living abroad.
Expressing
gratitude to those who have embraced the online registration system, the IEC
extends a heartfelt appeal to eligible citizens residing outside the country,
urging them to leverage the upcoming overseas voter registration weekend
scheduled for January 26, 27, and 28, 2024.
In
an official statement, the IEC emphasizes the importance of this registration
opportunity and encourages citizens abroad to either register online or in
person at their nearest South African mission. High commissions, embassies, and
consulates will be readily available during working hours to assist in the
registration process. Eligible voters are advised to coordinate with their
nearest mission to ascertain the specific registration dates and times.
Notably, the registration requirements include a South African identity
document and a valid South African passport.
Highlighting
a unique aspect of this initiative, a special two-day overseas voter
registration event has been scheduled between January 26 and 28, 2024. The
timing of the event will vary based on the weekend configuration in different
countries. For instance, in countries where the weekend falls on Saturday and
Sunday, the registration event is set for Saturday, January 27, and Sunday,
January 28.
This
forward-thinking approach by the IEC signals a progressive leap towards
embracing technology to facilitate and enhance the electoral process, ensuring
that South African citizens across the globe can actively participate in
shaping the future of their nation.