22 February 2006
The IEC launched its National Operations Centre today. This is the Centre in
Tshwane from where the operational aspects of 1 March 2006 Municipal Elections
will be managed, where the results of the counts in 18 873 voting districts
will be co-ordinated and where the results of the elections in every
municipality will be determined.
At the launch the Commissionâs preparations and readiness for voting was
reviewed. All logistical, staffing and voting station preparations are on track
and timelines have been and will be met. The Commission as an organisation as
well as its people are ready to receive voters on voting day to bring out their
votes in confidence and comfort.
The Commission receives regular briefings on the security of elections from
its own people on the ground and from the security services. The Commission is
convinced that on voting day voters all over the country, including those in
one or two areas where isolated incidents of political violence have occurred,
will feel free to go to voting stations to vote without hindrance or
intimidation.
Should there be people trying to resort to violence or intimidation to
persuade voters not to vote, they will be criminals defying our Constitution.
They will face the full force of the law.
Free and fair elections form the cornerstone of our recently won democracy.
The IEC will ensure free and fair elections at all times.
Enquiries:
Lydia Young
Media Liaison
Cell: 082 650 8652
Issued by: Electoral Commission (IEC)
22 February 2006
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