EVMs might discourage the elderly � BDP

Speaking after a presentation by Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) consultant Gabriel Seeletso, councillors said majority of elderly people are ignorant of technology to the point of being inhibited to access it. Councillor for Moeti ward, Tlotlo Baganaletso said the elderly voters are more trustworthy when it comes to voting and he foresees a situation where a rumour starts spreading that voting is now done thorough ‘computers.’ “Just a mention of the word computer is enough to discourage elders from voting. They associate that with education. A perception may ensue that elections are now for the educated,” Baganaletso said.

Seeletso assured the house that IEC would go an extra mile to demonstrate the use of EVMs through avenues such as churches, kgotla meetings and other gatherings where elders may be found. Seeletso further explained that arrangements would be in place for people living with disabilities to use EVMs.