Zuma votes as polling held in South Africa elections

People tried to shake his hand, while others took pictures with their mobile phones. The president appeared to be in good spirits after casting his vote.

Speaking to the media shortly after, President Zuma said he felt “good and very enthusiastic”, as the day marked the culmination of months of canvassing by all political parties.

“It feels good that I have just voted, and I hope that all voters will cast their votes freely, without any problems. This is our right that we fought for, among other rights we have.”

Asked who he voted for, President Zuma laughed and said: “It is a secret.”

Many political party heavyweights also voted in their respective home towns Wednesday morning.