IEC investigates first objection to provisional KwaZulu-Natal election results

The objection relates to the counting process in Abaqulusi Municipality, while parties, independent candidates and members of the public have until 5pm on Friday to lodge complaints with the IEC.

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is investigating its first objection to the provisional KwaZulu-Natal election results, with political parties and independent candidates facing a 5pm Friday deadline to lodge complaints.

The objection, lodged in Abaqulusi Municipality relates to the counting process and is being investigated, IEC provincial electoral officer Ntombifuthi Masinga confirmed.

Masinga said a report would be submitted to the commission to assist it in determining the objection.

“This is the day where we receive objections and we expect more before the closing date. The commission needs to deliberate on all objections and make a determination,” she said.

Political parties, independent candidates and members of the public have until 5pm to lodge Section 65 objections over alleged irregularities during voting or counting that may have compromised the credibility or integrity of the elections.

Such objections must be submitted directly to the commission, which will consider them before making a determination.

The IEC is expected to announce the final election results on Sunday, after dealing with all objections lodged.