The South African Council of Churches hosted the deployment of thousands of civil society observers across the length and breadth of South Africa. The South African Civil Society Observation Coalition (SACSOC) served as the coordinating body. Special attention was given to "hot spots". In KwaZulu/Natal 1 800 non-partisan observers and violence monitors were present in and around voting stations in all parts of the Province.

Initial reports indicate that the elections were peaceful, free of intimidation and voters freely exercised their 'right to vote'. There were no major crises. Coming from a history were elections were marred by conflict and violence, we are proud that this election was free from any loss of life, limb or damage to property. This is an appropriate present as our nation celebrates the Decade of Freedom and Democracy.

Whereas civil society intends to bring elections closer to our people and welcome the introduction of Special Votes we were unable to observe this process. Indications are that they may have been minor incidents of dissatisfaction in this regard. Fortunately our Electoral Act allows those parties who are dissatisfied to seek redress through the appropriate channels. Many people who should have made use of the Special Vote did not exercise this right. When they arrived on the normal voting day and were given special attention it created tensions.

The SACC commends South African civil society organisations, in all nine Provinces, for their service in observing Election 2004. Most of these observers offered their services voluntarily (without payment). We were able to have a significant presence of civil society in the electoral process. Many observers were present during political party rallies, at voting stations and during the counting of ballots. This initiative was coordinated by civil society organisations in Provinces and the South African Council of Churches.

We salute the IEC for the systems it put in place. The training provided to Electoral Officers was good and noticeable in their efficiency, which enhanced the integrity of the election process. Many officials worked long hours and their exhaustion became noticeable during the counting period. However, we are satisfied and impressed by the high level of professionalism. The use of modern technology played a major part in delivering a transparent election that we as a nation are proud of.

The SACC commends and thank our Security Forces for their effective service and presence during the entire election process. Civil Society and NGOs were involved in peace processes in anticipated 'Flash Points', even before the election. Sterling work has been done. The combination of a strong and visible presence of Security Personnel and civil society peace groups bolstered the confidence of voters.

The maturity of the voting population contributed in a significant way towards the free and fairness of the election. This is phenomenal.

While the election itself was peaceful there may be need for peace-building processes to continue after the election. This may also require Security Personnel to remain operative in some areas where the final election results may not be acceptable.

Voters were generally enthusiastic and endured long queues. We expected a bigger turn-out and shared the pain with those who turned up at voting stations to learn that they did not qualify to vote.

Voter education continues to be a challenge. The main reason for spoilt ballots can be ascribed to the lack of voter education. For voters to go through all the effort of casting their ballots and then have their vote declared invalid is a major concern for us. We regret the inconvenience of the few who were not allowed to vote as they appeared at the wrong voting station. We call on the IEC to address and remedy the matter of voter education in future elections. We are concerned about the unacceptable level of spoilt ballots (1.5%). Voter education should be done consistently and sustained in the long-term. In so doing we can prepare other potential voters.

The SACC was impressed by the presence of political party agents in voting stations and the general behaviour of all political parties during the campaign period and on the days of election. We are however disturbed by some parties setting up tables too close to the voting station, while other parties engaged in distributing party literature at such points. Voters expressed their dissatisfaction to us while some felt intimidated by this close presence.

The media played a commendable role in contributing to the transparency, freedom and fairness of the election. We are hopeful that such responsible reporting will continue in the post election phase.

The SACC commends first time voters and particularly the youth who just turned 18. Their decision to exercise the right to vote is appreciated. We are mindful that the right to vote has a painful history; we had to fight to attain this right, a right for which many South Africans sacrificed and offered of themselves. Such young people are an expression of responsible citizenship, their behaviour augers well for the future of peace, stability and democracy in South Africa.

The SACC and all its member churches congratulate all parties who participated in the election. We are proud of the standards that we all could set. The Renewal of Africa has been given another boost. We have set standards and values that could be emulated in other parts of our beloved continent- Africa.

Church leaders are offering to assist in mediation and the resolution of any disputes that may result from this election.

The peaceful and transparent nature of the entire election process is a wonderful gift to celebrate our Decade of Democracy and Freedom. It is our wish that all South Africans will be able to experience LIFE IN ABUNDANCE!

Released by: Rev Dr Molefe Tsele, SACC General Secretary
For more information, contact: Eddie Makue on 082 853 8781