Inmates across South Africa’s prisons are exercising their democratic right to vote in the 2024 national and provincial elections.
Over 17,000 people serving time behind bars will cast their ballots to elect political parties and independent candidates into the National Assembly and the nine provincial legislatures. The voting process began at 7 a.m. and will conclude at 9 p.m.
Justice and Correctional Services Minister, Ronald Lamola, emphasized that inmates were allowed to vote in accordance with the Electoral Act, reflecting the progressive nature of South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
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“We have created a conducive environment to enable inmates to vote in a safe and controlled setting. I am impressed to see that the voting processes are going well, and I commend IEC officials as well as DCS officials who are on duty to ensure a smooth election,” Minister Lamola stated.
Gauteng’s Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Facility, visited by Minister Lamola on Wednesday, recorded the largest number of registered inmate voters, totaling 2,908.
Among those exercising their right to vote is Lisa Nyati, a detainee serving a three-year sentence for theft.
Nyathi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the electoral process, saying, “It’s my first time to vote, and I feel like the government is fair for giving us an opportunity to cast our vote while we are still inside.”
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) will announce the final election results on Sunday, June 2. The extension allows the commission extra time to accurately count the votes, address any disputes, and conduct the necessary seat allocation calculations before the results announcement ceremony.
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