New Protocols and Tech Kept Lines Moving, but some Voters Still Faced Long Queues

New protocols and tech kept lines moving, but some voters still faced long queues

Armed with handheld barcode scanners, stricter station rules and better-trained staff, the IEC reported rapid turnaround times as more than 12 million citizens cast their ballots by late afternoon. But some voters reported long distances and up to two-and-a-half hours’ wait.

IEC reports encouraging voter turnout as 12 million cast their votes

The IEC has reported encouraging voter turnout, with roughly 12 million South Africans having cast their ballots by 17:00 on Wednesday.

IEC defends recruitment and training after questions over voting station staff conduct

As of 5pm on election day, 188 000 election staff had scanned over 12 million voters at polling stations across the country.

IEC dismisses staff unpreparedness claims after 12 million votes cast by 5PM

The IEC defended election-day staffing and device readiness as 12 million votes were processed by 5pm, while investigating ballot theft in eThekwini in 2026.