The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in KwaZulu-Natal says it is ready to hold credible municipal elections in the province next week. Briefing the media yesterday at the opening of the Provincial Operations Centre at the Durban Exhibition Centre, chairperson Mawethu Mosery, said all logistics had been put in place.

Representatives of the political parties that will be contesting the elections attended the ceremony.

On Wednesday, the IEC officially opened the national facility in Pretoria, to serve as the central command point during the March 1 municipal elections.

In KwaZulu-Natal, the IEC expects four million voters spread across the province to cast their votes in 61 municipalities.

Mr Mosery said also it was calm in most areas, there were” two areas that concerned the IEC.

“We will be keeping a close watch in Nongoma (north coast) and Mtshezi (Estcourt) areas with the cooperation of the police and if the need arises the army as well,” the chairperson said.

There have been reports of harassment of candidates, attacks and killings in these areas.

He said vehicles were also on standby to assist voters get to polling stations should rural areas experience unexpected heavy rains.

Housing, Local Government and Traditional Affairs MEC, Mike Mabuyakhulu has also assured the IEC of support from government.

“Our task is to assist in carrying out a free and credible poll and that is what we will do.” He also expressed his satisfaction with the operations centre and said his government was confident that free and fair elections would be held. – BuaNews