South African Election: The historic piece of paper

THIS IS the ballot paper for the national part of the South African elections that will be handed to up to 23 million voters. Voting begins today for the elderly, handicapped and voters overseas. Most of the electorate will vote tomorrow and Thursday.

Since the Inkatha Freedom Party consented to run only last week, a sticker containing its details will be attached to the ballot paper before it is handed to voters. Party logos and the photographs of party leaders are included on the ballot paper to assist rural voters, many of whom are illiterate.

Voters will be given a second ballot paper listing parties running for the provincial legislature in their region. Counting begins on Friday morning and first accurate projections of the outcome are expected that afternoon.

(Photograph omitted)