‘Star power’ to lure youth to polls

2.11.2013 IEC registration poster Picture: Etienne Creux

2.11.2013 IEC registration poster Picture: Etienne Creux

Published Jan 24, 2014

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Cape Town - The IEC says it has recruited “star power” to boost the number of young voters getting registered during the final voting registration period next month.

The stars from the music, media and entertainment industries feature in a television advert and talk about why they plan to vote in the elections.

The advert – filmed in a large warehouse with a backdrop of a graffiti wall saying “I X (vote) SA” – features young celebrities such as Toya Delazy, Anele Mdoda, HHP, Khuli Chana, Jack Parow, Joey Rasdien, Liquideep, Lira, Shashi Naidoo, Pabi Moloi, Lalla Hirayama, Siyabonga Ngwekazi, Melinda Bam, Loyiso Bala and Zolani Mohola.

Electronica and dance group Goldfish supply the soundtrack for the commercial. For the duration of the one-minute version, celebs talk about the importance of voting and challenge young people to find their own reason to participate. The campaign includes a radio advert.

According to the IEC, only 54.5 percent of South Africans between the ages of 20 and 29 are registered. For voters aged 18 and 19, the registration level is even lower at just 22.6 percent.

Registration stations throughout the country will be open from 8am to 5pm on Saturday, February 8 and Sunday, February 9 for new voters to register and for those already registered to update and verify their details. This will be the final opportunity to register ahead of this year’s elections.

Those wanting to check their registration details can do so at www.elections.org.za or by SMSing their ID number to 32810 (SMS charged at R1).

[email protected]

Cape Argus

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