Thousands of voters braved the early morning chilled weather to stand in line to exercise their right to vote.
All voting stations opened on time. By opening time, voters were already queuing outside voting stations.
Nelson Mandela Bay IEC regional manager Malome Nkoana said he was satisfied with the developments during the opening and start of the voting.
“Our staff arrived and opened on time. We are experiencing long lines, but we are beefing up teams in the affected areas. Overall, things are going just fine,” said Nkoana.
Voters, predominantly first time voters could not hold their excitement.
First voter Philiswa Booi said it was a special feeling for her to be voting for the first time. “It was an exciting feeling. I voted so that there can be job opportunities. I also want to seen an improved service delivery in the townships and rural areas,” said Booi.
Booi voted at a voting station in City Hall.
Another first time voter, Asemahle Xandana voted at Walmer Primary School said she had to make sure that she votes and be part of those who make history. “I am very happy to have made my mark. I want to see change and I wanted to be part of it not a bystander,” said Xandana.
Municipal Electoral Officer Dumisani Mbebe said he was happy that all stakeholders involved, including political parties are working hard to make sure that today runs smoothly.
Municipal Electoral Officer is responsible in leading and coordinating election stakeholders that include IEC, Political parties, Security cluster (Metro Police and SAPS, relevant government departments and the Municipal election infrastructure suppport departments.
“The cooperation of political parties is commendable. The reports we are getting from all voting districts as the Operational Centre indicate that the morning session will be smooth. We are also happy that young first time voters came out to make history,” said Mbebe.
Voting stations opened at 07h00 closing at 21h00. SAPS and Metro Police are out doing patrols at all voting areas to make sure that both voters and election staff are safe.
NMB Communications
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