Success! South African’s living abroad can vote!

Fabulous news - the South African Constitutional Court have ruled that South African’s living abroad can vote in the upcoming elections provided they notify the commission of their intention by March 27.


Unfortunately those who have not yet registered will not be allowed to vote.


According to the Mail & Guardian, handing down the first of two separate judgements, Justice Kate Oregano said the right to vote had a symbolic and democratic value and those who were registered should not be limited by unconstitutional and invalid limitations in the Electoral Act.


These had limited special votes to international sportsmen, government officials, and people on temporary holidays and business trips.


A second judgement by Justice Sandaled Gobo questioned why unregistered voters had left their court challenge so late, given that it could lead to an undesirable delay to electoral deadlines.


The limitations had been in effect since 2003 and they had not explained why they had left the matter so late, so they were denied access to the court.


He explained that the effect of the two judgements is: “South African citizens abroad and who are registered as voters will be allowed to vote. Those who are not registered will not.”


SAYFA will be releasing a statement shortly, along with details as to how you can go about notifying the UK commission of your intention to vote.


Protest march cancelled

In lieu of the recent Constitutional Court verdict our protest march has been cancelled.


Instead SAYFA will organise a celebratory party to thank all our supporters for their commitment to this cause. The details of the party will be made available as soon as they are finalised and we hope to see all our supporters at the event, celebrating in the spirit of jubilation and elation for this achievement. Please join our Facebook group to receive regular SAYFA updates. If you have any more queries about the voting procedure please let us know.


If you have any questions please contact us at .


Thank you for your continued support.