President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced May 29, 2024, as the date for the general national and provincial elections, coinciding with South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy. The announcement comes after consultations with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and provincial premiers to ensure readiness for the elections.
Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of the upcoming elections, calling on all eligible voters to exercise their democratic rights peacefully and within the bounds of the law. He urged unregistered voters to utilize the online registration platform to register.
Political parties welcomed the announcement, with the Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen stating the party’s readiness and commitment to the electoral process. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) spokesperson Sinawo Tambo expressed the party’s readiness for victory, emphasizing their platform of land, jobs, and addressing load shedding.
Rise Mzansi, a newcomer in the political arena, expressed excitement and readiness to campaign nationwide, focusing on people-centered politics. The Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) welcomed the certainty provided by the election date, urging South Africans to register to vote.
Political analyst Lukhona Mnguni highlighted the importance of the announcement in providing clarity and timelines for political parties’ preparations. Action SA’s Michael Beaumont emphasized a positive campaign approach, focusing on solutions for South Africa’s challenges.
The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa emphasized the need for planning and encouraged voter registration, stressing the significance of every South African’s participation in shaping the country’s future.
As the country prepares for this historic milestone, political parties are gearing up for vigorous campaigns aimed at securing support and charting the nation’s path forward.