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Compiled by the Government Communication and Information System Date: 12 Jun 2008 Title: IEC encourages youth to register to vote -------------------- By Kagiso Metswamere Mafikeng - The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has urged more young people to register to vote, as part of their preparations for next year's election. Speaking at a media briefing ahead of an election stakeholder meeting in Mafikeng on Wednesday, IEC National Chief Electoral Officer Pansy Tlakula said young people were less likely to register to vote. "The growth in the number of registrations is not reflecting young people aged between 18 and 25. It is as important to work with other stakeholders to ensure young people register to vote for the 2009 election," Ms Tlakula said. The IEC hopes to register about 22 million voters for the 2009 election, with 20.2 million currently registered voters on the voter's roll. The stakeholder meeting, attended by traditional leaders, political leaders, councilors, business leaders and government officials, was held to find the best way to effectively work together and increase the number of youth registering to vote. "We are working with high schools, colleges and universities to ensure the youth develop an interest in the elections," said Ms Tlakula, adding that a survey is to be conducted which will further assist them in identifying the reason for the lack of interest among the youth. Regarding other possible challenges ahead, Ms Tlakula said the IEC was going to ensure the 2009 election was one of the best when compared to previous years. Some of the challenges experienced in past elections range from far voting station, voters standing on long queue and access to the voting stations. "This year we are going to increase the number of voting stations from 18 000 to 20 000 which will ensure that people don't travel far distances and long queues are avoided," Ms Tlakula said. She further emphasised that the IEC would ensure they deliver a free and fair election. "We are bound by the Constitution of South Africa to make sure that we produce results that are free and fair. "The IEC will always ensure that they produce free and fair results that will not bring the country into disrepute," Ms Tlakula added. - BuaNews |
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