The ROC, at Gallagher Estate in Midrand, will be the nerve centre for capturing, auditing, collating and announcing the election results next week after Election Day.
Speaking at the official launch of the results centre on Wednesday, the Electoral Commission (IEC) Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said it will serve as the “beating heart of the democratic process”, bringing together commission members, operational areas, representatives of political parties and independent candidates, observer missions and media representatives from across the globe.
There will also be ROCs across all the nine provinces, Mamabolo said.
He said it was an honour to welcome a record-breaking 160 organisations, collectively deploying over 5 000 observers from around the world to witness and validate the integrity of the commission’s electoral process.“This includes esteemed international bodies such as the African Union, The Carter Centre Democracy Program, and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, alongside a legion of domestic observers committed to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability.”
He reminded all voters of the principle that governs the elections – a person votes at the voting station where they are registered. “The only exception to this rule is for those who have duly notified the commission of their intention to vote outside their registered voting district,” he said.
With less than a week before Election Day, Mamabolo called on all South Africans, both at home and abroad, to participate in this defining moment for the nation.Chairperson of the Electoral Commission Mosotho Moepya said the ROC was not merely a physical space but was a testament to the unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity in the electoral process.
“The ROC stands as a beacon of transparency and accountability, illuminating the path toward a future characterised by free and fair elections. Here, within the walls of what we affectionately call ‘The ROC’, South Africa’s commitment to free and fair elections finds its stronghold,” Moepya said.
Moepya said the results centre would witness the announcement and certification of results in national, provincial, and local elections and that it symbolised the nation’s steadfast dedication to democratic principles.
“I extend a warm welcome to representatives from all political parties and independent candidates participating in these elections. “Your presence here underscores the collaborative effort required in the management of elections. Through the National Political Liaison Committee, we have engaged transparently at every stage of the electoral process, ensuring inclusivity and fairness,” he said.
Moepya said each voting station result undergoes rigorous audit authentication before being posted, ensuring accuracy and accountability. “The capture and verification of results at each voting station, independent audits, and real-time accessibility of data to stakeholders exemplify our commitment to integrity,” he said.
sanews.org.za
