THE Independent Electoral Commission has declared its readiness to receive potential voters at registration stations across the country over the weekend.
It said a total of 23 151 registration stations would be in operation from 8am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.
CEO Sy Mamabolo said at least 48 899 registration officials had been trained to undertake procedures at voting stations.
He said for the first time, staff had to complete online training modules as well as a module on the practicalities of the process.
“The online modules related to theoretical concepts associated with the constitutional role of the commission and voter registration processes.
“Staff had to attain 80% competency level in order to proceed to the practical module,” he said.
Mamabolo said the training innovation would strengthen the capacity to offer an excellent registration service to citizens.
He said the safety of voters and staff was a key priority of the commission and Covid-19 registration protocols would apply at all stations.
“A face mask or cloth covering the nose and mouth, social distance with a minimum of 1,5m and sanitising upon entry will be mandatory,” he said.
He said all registration staff and stations were provided with necessary items to use as precautionary measures to curb possible Covid-19 transmissions.
He advised those eligible to vote to bring an ID document, that may be a smart card, green bar-coded book or temporary identification certificate.
“It is essential that a voter indicates an address or a description of where they live. Proof of address is not a requirement for purposes of registration,” he said.
Mamabolo said following claims and threats of disruption, possible hot-spots were identified and handed over to the police.
“There was also a priority meeting with NatJOINTS earlier, and the necessary security will be provided.”
He said they had noted, with gratitude, the decision by Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga to adjust the matric exam timetable in order to accommodate the elections on 1 November.
“This gesture will enable young voters who are writing exams to participate in the elections.”
