Political parties are wrapping up their campaigns as election day approaches, and a record number of voters have registered to have their say in the upcoming General Elections on May 8 2019.
While everything has already been put in place ahead of voters making their way to the polls, you may still have a few questions on the General Elections. Here is a breakdown of what you need to know:
Is election day 2019 a public holiday?
Yes, it is a public holiday.
When are the General Elections?
South Africa will head to the polls on 8 May 2019.
How do I check if I am registered to vote?
You can check your voter registration status online, or SMS your ID number to 32810 at a cost of R1 per SMS. You will then be able to view your registration status, current voting station, and ward number.
How do I vote in the elections?
If you are sure of your voter registration status and where your polling station is, you need to take a relevant document with you (your ID, smartcard ID or valid Temporary Identity Certificate (TIC)). With this in hand, head over to your polling station where you will be assisted by IEC officials.
What time do voting stations open?
Voting stations will open at 7am on the 2019 election day in South Africa.
What time do voting stations close?
Voting stations will close at 10pm on May 8 on South Africa’s 2019 election day.
Can I vote if I am not yet 18?
No, you can only vote if you are registered to vote and are 18 years or older.
What happens if I am registered but choose not to vote?
It is not compulsory to vote in South Africa, but all those who have registered are encouraged to do so.
Can I vote on election day if I am too sick to get out of bed?
If you’re confined to your bed and can’t get to your voting station for the 2019 elections, you must have already applied for a special vote. Special votes will take place on 6 and 7 May, and applications closed on April 18.
Can I vote if I lost my ID?
If you want to vote in the South African elections but have lost your ID, you’ll need a Temporary Identity Certificate (TIC) that will be accepted on election day. You can apply for your TIC at the Department of Home Affairs.
Can I vote on election day if I am in hospital?
If you are in hospital on the day of the elections, you must have applied for a special vote by now. Applications closed on 18 April. Special votes will take place on 6 and 7 May.
How do I vote if I am not in South Africa on election day?
If you have moved overseas, or will be overseas on the day of the 2019 election, you must have registered AND successfully submitted a VEC 10 form, to inform the IEC of where you intend to vote abroad, by 13 March.
What do I do if I lost my voter registration sticker?
You can still vote as long as your name is on the voters’ roll. If your name isn’t on the voters’ roll and you don’t have your registration sticker (or another form of proof that you are registered to vote), you have no proof that you have registered, and you won’t be able to vote.
Can I vote on behalf of somebody else?
No, you are not allowed to vote for somebody else.
Picture: Twitter