President Jacob Zuma has proclaimed May 7 as the date for the national elections, the presidency said on Friday."I have met with the Independent Electoral Commission to discuss preparations, and also with the Premiers. We deliberated on this very important right of our people to elect a government of their choice, for which thousands of South Africans laid down their lives, President Zuma said in a press statement.
"I am satisfied that the IEC preparations are at an advanced stage."
"After consulting with the IEC, I would like to inform the South African people locally and abroad, that the fifth national general elections in the Republic of South Africa will be held on the 7th of May 2014, throughout the country."
The President also called for calm during the elections.
"Most importantly, I urge all our people to promote peace, tolerance and peaceful coexistence as we move towards the elections and during the elections."
