Parliament, Thursday, 13 June 2024 – Today, the Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, administered an oath and affirmation to the Returning Officer and the Assistant Returning Officers of Parliament. This significant event marks the final preparations for the election procedures scheduled to take place in the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces on Friday, 14 June, and Saturday, 15 June.
The Returning Officer is the Secretary to Parliament, Mr. Xolile George, and the Assistant Returning Officers include the secretaries of the two Houses and their table staff. These officials will be responsible for managing the election process of the presiding officers and the President during the first sittings of the Houses of Parliament. The oath and affirmation bind each person serving as a returning officer to act with integrity, honesty, and fairness in overseeing the electoral process.
Acting under the authority of the Chief Justice as the Presiding Officer, the returning officers will function as electoral officers. Their duties include conducting elections or polls, compiling and certifying the electoral rolls, capturing nominations, and processing and counting votes, among other responsibilities. This structured process ensures that the elections are conducted smoothly and uphold the highest standards of democratic principles.
The electoral process is one of the critical features of the first sittings of both Houses of Parliament and must be conducted with strict adherence to the Constitution, the rules of Parliament, and the laws of the country. Parliament is fully prepared with all necessary voting infrastructure, including voting booths, the printing of ballot papers, ballot boxes, and secure breakaway rooms for counting. This meticulous preparation ensures that the elections are conducted transparently, fairly, and efficiently, upholding the integrity of our democratic processes.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA.
Media Enquiries – Moloto Mothapo