Mamabolo: SA at ‘pivotal juncture’ as election approaches
The Independent Electoral Commission has officially opened the National Results Operation Centre (ROC) ahead of the May 29 elections.
The venue will serve as a primary management hub for electoral operations, where political parties, independent candidates, media, and observers will be able to see the results in real-time.
It is based at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.
The launch came exactly seven days before South Africans cast their national and provincial votes.
"Today, we find ourselves at a pivotal juncture, where the road to these historic elections approaches its final and most critical stages,” IEC Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo.
"As we embark on this momentous journey, we find inspiration in the unwavering commitment of our staff, who will be present at all 23,303 voting stations, diligently attending to the needs of those unable to visit the stations, ensuring a seamless and inclusive voting experience for all.
“The appointment of 202,500 voting officials, including a new category of staff dedicated to enhancing the counting quality, underscores our resolute dedication to upholding the integrity of the electoral process, " said Mamabolo.
He also announced that the commission had completed printing and delivering over 90 million ballots to different voting stations across the country.
The IEC has approved over 160 organisations that have registered as election observers.
The organisations will deploy over 5,000 observers from around the world to validate the integrity of the electoral process.
"This includes esteemed international bodies such as the African Union, the Carter Centre Democracy Program, and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, alongside a legion of domestic observers, committed to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability," added Mamabolo.
He called on all South Africans to answer the call of democracy and participate in the May 29 elections.
"The Electoral Commission stands resolute in its commitment to declaring an election outcome that is a true reflection of the choices made by the South African people – the custodians of our democracy. For it is your democracy, and you must truly own it," said Mamabolo.
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