Elections coinciding with Ramadan

ELECTION NEWS - Representatives of the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) of South Africa and the 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, the Holy Month of 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 2019.

The National and Provincial Elections (NPE) is a necessary and key tool within any democratic society that ensures good governance, political stability and political accountability to the electorate. The participation in the elections is a requisite civic duty placed on all citizens who have registered and who are able to participate.

This year the NPE coincides with the beginning of the Islamic Holy Month of Ramadan in which billions of Muslims across the globe observe the abstinence of food and drink from sunrise to sunset, in a conscious attempt to build a heightened sense of moral and spiritual development.

The observance of the fast should not be seen as an isolated event but rather part of our daily lives, with the exception that we are in a state of heightened self-reflection and contemplation on the society around us.

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 – 7 May.

The MJC and the IEC have agreed to work together to ensure a smooth process of voting and a successful election.

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 which will provide allowance to cast a vote on Monday 6 and Tuesday 7 May from 09:00 to 17:00.