WATCH LIVE: IEC opens national results operation centre ahead of polls

JOHANNESBURG - The Electoral Commission (IEC) on Wednesday officially opened the national results operation centre (ROC) ahead of elections. 
 
The centre will serve as the main hub for political parties, observers and media to receive real-time election results. 
 
For the first time ever, the centre will be based at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.

Since the first democratic elections in 1994, the Tshwane Events Centre has been the IEC's chosen national results operation centre. 
 
However, due to neglect and vandalism, the IEC has been forced to find another venue. 
 
Deputy chief electoral officer, Masego Sheburi, said that they were happy with the Gallagher Convention Centre. 
 
"The facility is fit for purpose, it's an exhibition facility, so most of the base infrastructure is here. Our preference would have been to use a state facility. It has not been possible this time around, so we must make Gallagher work as a results centre."
 
Sheburi said that the IEC was ready to administer free and fair elections next Wednesday. 
 
For now, it's a hive of activity at the centre as IEC officials are busy with final preparations before the official launch kicks off.
 
A large media contingent is also present, gearing up for coverage of the seventh democratic elections.