Political

Now South African authorities warn against polling booth selfies

The Cape Times reports:

The IEC [Independent Electoral Commission] put out a statement yesterday discouraging selfies in the voting booth, saying that it spoils the secrecy of the vote.

If you wanted to take a picture of yourself participating in democracy, the IEC said: “It is an offence to take and/or publish photographs which reveal a person’s vote on a ballot paper” – even if that vote is your own.

“Upon conviction, offenders will be liable to a fine or a term of imprisonment not exceeding one year.”

The announcement was sparked by a flood of voter selfies from abroad last week when expats took to the polls. South Africans around the world took pictures of themselves and their ballots.

This follows the fashion for them in Holland and the advice against permitting them in the UK.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

All comments and data you submit with them will be handled in line with the privacy and moderation policies.