ANC commends voters for massive turnout

22 April 2009

The African National Congress commends the voters of South Africa for turning out in their millions in today's election, and for the peaceful atmosphere that has prevailed across the country.

With a few hours to go before voting closes, the ANC is extremely satisfied with the conduct of the election so far.

Reports from ANC party agents across the country indicate few problems and high levels of enthusiasm among voters.

The ANC has noted with concern the shortage of ballot papers in some parts of the country, particularly high density urban centres like Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Bloemfontein and Cape Town. The ANC welcomes the commitment by IEC to address the problem.

We call on any voters who may be waiting for extra ballot papers to be delivered to exercise patience and not to leave the queue as more ballot papers are being delivered. Similarly, we call on any people who may have earlier been turned away from voting stations because of this problem to return to their voting stations.

The ANC calls on all those who have not yet voted to do so before 9pm. Voters should remember that anyone who is in the queue at 9pm will still be able to vote.

Issued by:
Jessie Duarte
National Spokesperson
African National Congress

More information:
Brian Sokutu 071 671 6919
Ishmael Mnisi 082 333 5550