Electoral Commission brings voter registration closer to communities on 20 and 21 June

OUDTSHOORN NEWS - The Electoral Commission (IEC) is urging residents of Oudtshoorn to make use of the National Voter Registration Weekend on 20 and 21 June, as part of its ongoing drive to bring voter registration services closer to communities and ensure that no eligible voter is left behind.

The registration weekend is aimed at first-time voters, young South Africans preparing to cast their first ballot, and existing voters who need to update their registration details or confirm that they are registered in the correct voting district.

The IEC encourages young people aged 16 to register, so they are ready to vote when they turn 18. Residents who have recently moved or changed their address are also urged to update their details to avoid any issues on election day.

Voters can visit their designated voting stations during the registration weekend to register, update their information, or verify their registration details.

Useful links:

• For added convenience, voter registration services are available online 24 hours a day. Residents can register to vote or update their address details by visiting the online voter registration portal at https://registertovote.elections.org.za/.

• To check their voter registration status or confirm where they are registered, voters can visit the IEC website at https://www.elections.org.za/pw/Voter/Voter-Information.

• The IEC also offers a range of SMS services at a cost of R1 per SMS. Voters can SMS their ID number to 32810 to check their registration status, to 32245 to find out who their ward councillor is, or to 32711 to check the status of a special vote application.

Special votes

Special votes are available to registered voters who are unable to travel to their voting station on election day due to physical infirmity, disability, or pregnancy. Applicants must have a valid South African identity document, whether a green-barcoded ID book, smart ID card, or valid Temporary Identity Certificate.

Residents can also check their registration status by SMSing their ID number to 32810 or by contacting the IEC's call centre on 0800 11 8000.

The Electoral Commission has emphasised that participation in democracy starts with registration and has called on all eligible residents to make use of the opportunity.

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