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The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) states that there is no assurance of supplementary registration

News Image Despite falling short of its target, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has not committed to opening supplementary registration following the closure of registration for the 2024 General Elections on February 3. This information was disclosed by IEC secretary, Mr. Jefferson Siamisang, during an update on the recently concluded registration exercise.

Mr. Siamisang reported that a total of 736,424 individuals registered, with 734,781 registering locally and 1,643 in the diaspora. Despite Botswana having approximately 1.7 million eligible voters and the IEC setting a target of about 1.3 million, only about 54 percent of the target was achieved. Mr. Siamisang explained that the IEC's target was informed by past registration trends.

He stated that the IEC would compile a report on the registration exercise and present it to relevant authorities, who would then decide whether to call for supplementary registration. However, Mr. Siamisang emphasized that any decision would be constrained by time and aligned with constitutional provisions.

Reasons cited by individuals for failing to register included awaiting confirmation of candidates by political parties and a perceived lack of candidate outreach. Mr. Siamisang noted that Batswana tend to procrastinate, leading to a rush at registration centers on the final day.

Regarding the case between the IEC and Madibela Tlhopho, Mr. Siamisang clarified that it did not contribute to low registration numbers. He stated that the IEC used the period to intensify public education on registration's importance through various media channels.

Once the report is compiled, the IEC will create a voters' roll for community inspection. Mr. Siamisang commended registration clerks for their efforts, though he acknowledged the inevitability of human errors. He also thanked political party leaders for encouraging registration.

Regarding stolen registration books in the Marobela council ward, Mr. Siamisang reported that 42 registrants were affected, with 32 already identified and issued new cards. The stolen books were canceled from the system to prevent their misuse.


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