![[WATCH] President Ramaphosa delivers the 2024 State of the Nation Address](https://pondolandtimes.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/unnamed-30.jpg "Unnamed 30")
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially declared May 29th, 2024, as the date for the upcoming General National and Provincial elections. This decision, made in accordance with constitutional provisions, marks a crucial milestone in South Africa’s democratic journey.
President Ramaphosa’s determination of the election date, as outlined in section 49(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and section 17 of the Electoral Act of 1998, comes after consultations with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) as mandated by section 17(2) of the Electoral Act 73 of 1998.
The President’s decision was reached following a meeting with all nine Provincial Premiers and the IEC to assess the readiness for the forthcoming elections. With the 2024 elections coinciding with South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy, President Ramaphosa emphasized the historic significance of the event and called on all eligible voters to actively participate.
“Beyond the fulfilment of our constitutional obligation, these upcoming elections are also a celebration of our democratic journey and a determination of the future that we all desire,” remarked President Ramaphosa. He urged South Africans to exercise their democratic right to vote and encouraged peaceful campaigning within the bounds of the law. Additionally, the President emphasized the importance of voter registration, urging unregistered citizens to utilize the online registration platform.
The proclamation formalizing the election date will be issued in due course, paving the way for a period of active political engagement and preparation leading up to the historic 2024 General Elections.
