IEC encourages South Africans in Sudan, Israel and Ukraine to register to vote

CAPE TOWN - The Electoral Commission (IEC) is encouraging South Africans living in Sudan, Israel and Ukraine to register to vote for the upcoming elections, despite their ability to vote being uncertain.

The IEC announced on Thursday that due to South Africa's missions being closed in those countries, residents may not be able to vote.

The electoral body said the missions were closed for security reasons, which the commission hopes will be resolved before elections commence.

IEC CEO Sy Mamabolo said it was the hope that when the election was proclaimed, the security situation may have abated, enabling the reopening of voting facilities.

Mamabolo said affected residents should also consider travelling to neighbouring countries to vote.

“The fact that that this could be a costly exercise is a matter outside the purview of the commission."