Pretoria – As the world’s eyes remain firmly fixed on the National Results Operations Centre (ROC) in the country’s capital, government says it is satisfied that vote counting is proceeding well.
The counting of votes in the 2016 Local Government Elections started last night after polling stations closed at 7pm in what was widely dubbed as the most hotly contested election since 1994.
Votes are being steadily tallied, with the Northern Cape being the first province to complete counting. Results from there show that the African National Congress (ANC) secured 58.26% of the votes, followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 24.85% and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) with 8.6% support.
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) on Thursday expressed every confidence in the credibility of the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), as it conducts the critical task of counting votes that will ultimately reflect the wishes of citizens at grass roots levels.
The GCIS said it was pleased that all objections raised with the IEC are being addressed and that the election results will soon be certified.
“As part of this important constitutional process, all parties have the opportunity to voice their complaints about any issues encountered during the voting process,” said the department.
The department said this platform accorded to parties and candidates further speaks to the maturity of South Africa’s young democracy.
GCIS Acting Director-General Donald Liphoko said government is happy that South Africans in their diversity actively embraced the right to participate in the elections, as enshrined in the Constitution.
“We are also encouraged by the positive manner in which the public have welcomed the results as they are being announced. The way in which the elections were conducted contributes to a positive perception of South Africa and ultimately reflects the maturity of our democracy,” GCIS Acting Director-General, Donald Liphoko said.
The GCIS said government is encouraged with the voter participation in this important constitutional process and remains committed to the improving citizens’ lives post elections.
“This new mandate given by citizens is indeed a catalyst for our democracy. As we await the final outcome of the voting process, government appeals for continued calm and tolerance and calls on all South Africans to abide by the laws of our country.” - SAnews.gov.za
