Register for special vote

KNYSNA NEWS - The application process for special voting in next month's national and provincial elections opens today, 4 April 2019.

A special vote allows those who who cannot make it to their voting station on election day on 8 May, to make their mark beforehand. This year, it will take place on 6 and 7 May.

Special votes only apply to certain individuals, including people who cannot travel to their voting station because they are physically infirm, disabled or pregnant; and those who cannot vote at their voting station on election day.

Requirements: To apply for a special vote, you need to be a registered voter with a valid SA green, barcoded ID book; a smart-card ID; or a valid temporary identity certificate. If you are unsure, check your status online; SMS your ID number to 32810; or call the IEC's contact centre on 0800 11 800.

How to apply:

If you cannot vote at your registered voting station, there are several options: use the IEC's secured online application form; SMS your ID number to 32239; or visit a local IEC office and submit a VEC 1 form. These forms can only be hand delivered but can be delivered by someone else on your behalf.

"You will receive an SMS notifying you of the outcome … but you can also check the status of your special vote application online," the IEC said.

If you are physically infirm, disabled or pregnant, the process is similar as above.

Should the application be successful, voting officials will visit you at your preferred address on either 6 or 7 May.

Special voting applications close on 18 April.

Ensuring secrecy: According to the IEC, the voting process includes having your thumbnail marked with indelible ink. You will receive the relevant ballot papers and be allowed to mark the ballots in secret and seal it in an unmarked envelope, to be placed in another envelope marked with your name, ID number and voting district number. "The use of the two envelopes is to ensure the secrecy of your ballot. The outer envelope is discarded before counting."

The IEC officials will then take the envelope and place it in a secure ballot box for special votes. Your name will be marked off the voter's roll.