Plans in place to accomodate Muslim voters during Ramadan

Representatives of the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) of South Africa and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) have been engaging in discussions about the holy month of Ramadan coinciding with the date of the elections.

According to the MJC, Ramadan will possibly commence on Tuesday 7 May, depending on the sighting of the new moon. Voting in the national and provincial elections will take place between 07:00 and 21:00 on 8 May.

This year, the elections coincide with the beginning of Ramadan, a month during which billions of Muslims across the globe abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset in a conscious attempt to build a heightened sense of moral and spiritual development.

In ensuring that the elections run smoothly for all those participating in it, the MJC and the IEC met to discuss certain considerations for voters and electoral staff who are observing the fast on election day and the two days of special voting scheduled for 6 and 7 May.

For electoral staff and party agents, the IEC and MJC encourage Muslim electoral staff to fulfil their religious obligations during the course of duty and both organisations will assist in facilitating opportunity for the observance of prayer, where possible.

This will also include observance and facilitation of space in the breaking of the fast at sunset, where possible. For voters, should members of the Muslim community find it necessary they may apply for a special vote on Monday 6 and Tuesday 7 May from 09:00 to 17:00. Applications for special votes open online and at IEC local offices from 4 to 18 April.

- Supplied by the IEC and

MJC