All polling stations were operational in South Africa's fourth general election and everything was peaceful, tranquil and harmonious, the Electoral Commission (IEC) said at noon on Wednesday.
"Almost all our 19 726 voting stations opened on time and are operating well. There were a few criminal challenges and shortage of ballot boxes, however the IEC is happy that most South Africans are exercising their right to choose people who must lead them during the next five years," said the IEC Chief Electoral Officer, Advocate Pansy Tlakula.
Here are brief reports from each province...
KwaZulu-Natal
KZN experienced a few challenges. An area manager in Inkandla reported that she lost all of her voting material, including ballot papers, indelible ink, scanners and stamps. A presiding officer in the same area was found with 50 marked ballot papers. Police are investigating.
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In Ulundi a presiding officer was allegedly found with a complete book of marked provincial and national ballot papers. Police were called and she allegedly admitted wrongdoing. She was taken for questioning and arrested. She will appear in court on Thursday on charges of fraud.
In Pongola, a presiding officer was killed after he was knocked down by a car.
Gauteng
All stations are functioning properly. There are long queues in some polling stations. Logistical challenges include shortage of ballot boxes. These are being addressed.
North West
Two IEC officials are critical in hospital after there were involved in a car accident.
A short supply of balloting material such as the indelible ink and ballot boxes were reported and resolved.
In Madibeng district outside Brits, a DA official claimed he was given provincial and national ballot papers already marked for ANC.
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