IEC under fire for not paying 2024 election volunteers

Ahead of the historic vote on May 29, 2024, election volunteers were recruited from various backgrounds to support the first Government of National Unity (GNU) since the end of Apartheid.

Despite the significance of the event, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has faced numerous issues, including complaints that many volunteers have not received their full payments, according to IOL.

There have also been widespread concerns about the lack of training and preparation for the 2024 election volunteers.

The IEC later acknowledged that most volunteers were unemployed youth from underprivileged backgrounds.

On election day, long queues and inoperable Voter Management Devices (VMDs) due to network outages worsened the situation, causing voters to wait for hours.

The inefficiencies of the 2024 election volunteers contributed to the lowest voter turnout in South African history, with just over 58% of registered voters participating.

This led to over 11 million registered voters abstaining from the vote, earning the nickname ‘the great no-vote of 2024.’

Many political parties have questioned the legitimacy of the election, with the MK taking the matter to court.

The IEC now faces further scrutiny over the alleged lack of payment to election volunteers. The commission attributed delays to outstanding documentation, including signed contracts, attendance registers, and valid bank account information, which are necessary to expedite payments.

The IEC expressed gratitude to all 2024 election volunteers for their service under challenging conditions, ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.

Volunteers still awaiting payment are advised to contact their local IEC office to finalize any outstanding administration, such as bank details, contracts, and work registers. Alternatively, they can email info@elections.org.za with their full name, ID number, dates worked, voting station and province, and cellphone number.