Pretoria – As South Africans head to the polls in the country’s fifth democratic elections on Wednesday, government has called on all South Africans, especially the youth and first-time voters, to exercise their democratic right to vote.
Government has also appealed to employers to allow employees time off so that they can exercise their democratic right to vote.
“With elections day being a public holiday, this is an opportunity for voters to visit voting stations throughout the day without creating bottlenecks in the evening.
“Government urges all South Africans not to leave voting to the last minute,” it said in a statement issues by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
Government has put several security measures in place to ensure safe and peaceful elections.
“Government will not allow individuals or groups to disrupt the nation’s fifth democratic elections. We call on all to respect the right to vote and warn those who aim to disrupt the elections or intimidate voters that they will face the full might of the law.”
All Home Affairs offices will be open today from 7am to 9pm to assist citizens with the necessary documents for voting.
Voters can also call a toll-free number 0800 6011 90 for more information on the elections. – SAnews.gov.za
