As South Africans prepare to cast their ballots for the 7th administration, the Electoral Commission (IEC) has warned voters to be cognizant of disinformation and fake news during elections.
As we vote in #SAelections2024, stay informed and beware of disinformation.
Disinformation is when someone creates and spreads lies about our elections on purpose.It can divide communities, mislead voters, and erode trust in our electoral system.
How to spot disinformation:… pic.twitter.com/CCWgBXZ66k
— IEC South Africa (@IECSouthAfrica) May 28, 2024
On Wednesday 29 May, millions of citizens will line up to vote at their respective voting stations. More than 27 million people have registered.
READ MORE: ICYMI What to expect on your THREE ballot papers on Election Day
Special voting commenced on Monday and concludes on Tuesday. This also includes home visits for those physically challenged or visually impaired. During a briefing on Monday, the commission said it experienced an insignificant number of challenges on the first day of special voting nationwide.
The IEC stated that it was able to open the majority of voting stations in the Eastern Cape amid protests unrelated to the elections.
Among the 435 voting stations that encountered problems on Monday morning, only 107 remained closed.
The IEC said disinformation is harmful as it can divide communities, mislead voters, and erode trust in the electoral system.
HOW TO SPOT DISINFORMATION
- Check if the source is reliable
- Look for credible evidence
- Beware of emotional language
- Cross-check with trusted news sources.
If you see disinformation, report it at Real411.org
