IEC needs P108 million for elections, Masisi implores MPs to push voter education

Isaiah Morewagae | Thursday March 6, 2014 17:35

Masisi told Parliament yesterday that the country is at a point where all efforts the IEC does are meant to facilitate preparation for the forthcoming general elections.

“I therefore feel obliged to implore honorable members of Parliament to take keen interest in the impending general elections’ activities and accord them the widest publicity possible,” Masisi said.

Masisi told Parliament that following the establishment of polling districts and stations, the general voter registration exercise was undertaken. “A total of 478,148 representing 43 percent of the targeted 1,120,000 eligible voters have so far registered voters for elections. The majority of these registered voters are from semi rural and rural areas,” Masisi said. The supplementary registration that was conducted in February/ March registered a total of 177, 476 which still runs short of the targeted number of registered people for the 2014 general elections.

He said the IEC would enhance its outreach programme by continuing to conduct school visits, road shows, workshops and kgotla meetings to publicise its activities and educate the electorate on the importance of voting.

Also, said Masisi the commission is visiting work places to sensitize workers on their civic responsibilities including registration and voting.

Masisi stressed community and political leaders’ role in educating Batswana on their civic responsibilities.

“I request all to play a part in building a culture anchored on democratic ideals,” Masisi said.

Masisi added in its endeavour to intensify political education amongst the youth, the IEC has formed Democracy Youth Clubs for school going children and youth ambassadors for out-of-school youngsters.

 “The aim of these programmes is to empower the youth with skills that enhance participation on issues of democracy, elections and good governance. I am happy to report that the clubs are in place and maiden competitions have been held,” Masisi said. Masisi said there is great need to strengthen capacity of the IEC stations, with only one principal election officer in charge. “If the officers are to make any meaningful impact and sustain it there is need to increase the staff complement that is responsible for elections and civic education to at least three officers.”