Exploring the implementation of electronic voting in South Africa: policy discussion document

Abstract

The purpose of this document is to initiate a discussion on the potential implementation of electronic voting (e-voting) in South Africa. E-voting involves the use of digital electronic systems to cast, tally and transmit votes. As technology evolves, it is essential to explore innovative methods to enhance the electoral process, increase voter participation, and ensure the integrity of elections. Digital transformation is accelerating in South Africa. Available statistics indicate that about 20 to 22 million people in South African use a smart phone, while the overall number of mobile connections is much higher and estimated to exceed 90 million by 2023 (Taylor, 2023).4 Census 2022 revealed that approximately 79% of the country has some form of internet access (StatsSA, 2022).