In the Eastern Cape, community members from Lower Zingcuka in Keiskammahoek staged a protest at a polling station over an unresolved land claim. Widespread electricity cuts and water shortages delayed voting across the province. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) voiced frustration as protests and infrastructure issues forced five polling stations to remain shut. The affected stations included locations in Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Ntabankulu, Port St Johns, Nyandeni, and King Sabata Dalindyebo municipalities. In several municipalities, disruptions delayed the opening of 32 polling stations. Authorities had to address these by bringing in water and generators. Despite violent protests in Mthatha earlier in the week, voting proceeded with minor disruptions. Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane urged residents to vote peacefully, emphasizing that protests should not impede public services. He criticized the protestors as opportunists undermining the election process.
Original Source: Sithandiwe Velaphi
Date: 2024-05-29 13:21:49
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