Home Affairs extends hours for election day

In preparation for the upcoming elections on 29 May, the Department of Home Affairs has announced extended operational hours for its branches.

These branches will open at 8:00 and close at 21:00 on election day, providing services for ID applications and collections. This initiative aims to accommodate the increased demand for identification documents, particularly for those voting for the first time.

During these extended hours, the department will also address issues such as duplicates, amendments, rectifications, and dead-alive cases, provided clients bring the necessary supporting documents.

Home Affairs mobile offices will deliver IDs to remote areas

In addition to the fixed locations, mobile offices will deliver IDs to remote areas where applications were initially taken. Local offices, in collaboration with stakeholders, including councillors, will communicate specific dates, times, and venues for these mobile visits.

Deputy Minister Njabulo Nzuza emphasised the importance of this initiative, particularly for young first-time applicants.

“We invite people who have applied for their IDs to come to our offices to collect their documents. This initiative provides more options to collect their enabling documents,” Nzuza stated.

He encouraged clients who have received SMS notifications about their ID readiness to take advantage of this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these essential documents.

Clients can book appointments to collect their Smart ID Cards and Green barcoded ID books using the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS) available on the department’s website. However, walk-ins are also welcome, providing flexibility for those unable to secure an appointment.

Positive feedback from the first day of special voting

Masego Sheburi, the Electoral Commission’s deputy chief electoral officer, reported positive feedback from the first day of special voting. Special votes began on Monday and continued into Tuesday, serving eligible voters. These voting stations operate from 9:00 to 17:00.

“The Electoral Commission is happy with the turnout and urges South Africans to continue to go out in their numbers to vote on 29 May 2024,” Sheburi said.

Additionally, he expressed satisfaction with the smooth execution of the first day of special votes, reflecting well on the preparations for the national and provincial elections.