'Steady start’ to elections, says IEC

Hundreds of far south residents headed to voting stations on Wednesday, May 29, to cast their ballots in the country's seventh democratic elections.

It was also the first time in history, since 1994, that voters received three ballot papers instead of two.

In the far south, there were long queues at the Simon’s Town town hall, King of Kings Baptist Church, and Cape Point Vineyards.

Voting got off to a quiet start at Kleinberg Primary School in Ocean View but later a steady stream of voters showed up to cast their ballots. According to most voters, the process went smoothly, with no hiccups.

The Echo spoke with Ocean View residents, Mervyn and Lee-Ann Jacobs.

Mervyn said his voting experience was hassle-free. When asked about his hopes for the election, he simply said, "To have a government that actually works."

Meanwhile, at Ukhanyo Primary School in Masiphumelele, voters came out in large numbers, eager to make their mark. Thandolwethu Mbi told the Echo she felt proud casting her vote today.

Sun Valley Primary School saw a similar turnout, with many residents flocking to the polls, in long queues.

Bernice Jaffe found voting a breeze because, as a pensioner, there were no long queues. She's hoping the current local authorities stay in power and that the roads in Sun Valley finally get some much-needed repairs.

Gary Manuel, who also voted at Sun Valley Primary School, was excited to participate in the elections. "It's important for us to have our voices heard and contribute to shaping our community's future through voting!"

According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa’s (IEC) deputy chief electoral officer Masego Sheburi, the elections got off to a "steady start" and all 23 292 voting stations across the country will be open until 9am tonight.