ELECTION NEWS - The Electoral Commission issued a reminder to employers that the right of citizens to vote is Constitutionally protected and paramount.
“The declaration of Election Day, 8 May, as a public holiday is to ensure every voter has the opportunity to exercise the right to vote and this takes priority over any business activities this week,” the IEC chief electoral officer Sy Mamabolo said in a media statement.
This is especially important for workers in the mining, agriculture, retail and tourism industries.
“It is an offence to prevent access to voting stations by voters, political parties, election officials and observers,” the IEC cautioned.
Disinformation
The commission has also cautioned voters against disinformation and fake news reports designed to undermine the smooth election process after rumours surfaced over the past weekend that state pension payments would be delayed this week.
“The commission has confirmed with Minister for Social Development Susan Shabangu that pension payments will be made as scheduled on Tuesday, 7 May.”
The Commission warned voters not to be duped by disinformation, including about voting hours. “Special voting takes place on Tuesday, 7 May, from 09:00 to 17:00, and voting on election day, 8 May, takes place from 07:00 to 21:00.”
At all times any hindrance or obstructions in the work of the commission in the exercising of its duties is prohibited. The Electoral Act (73 of 1997) also specifically prohibits political meetings, marches, demonstrations or any other political event taking place on voting day. It also prohibits strikes and lockouts in the public transport and telecommunications sectors.
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