2026 local government elections

Record 2.6 million special votes approved ahead of elections

With just three weeks to go before South Africans head to the polls, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has approved a record 2.65 million special vote applications, a 131% increase from the previous local government elections in 2021. IEC Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo, revealed the figures during a briefing on Wednesday as the commission ramps up preparations for the 4 November elections. The special vote application period […]

October 14, 2026 32

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YNews Elections Build-up | First-time Joburg voters call for greater transparency ahead of local elections

Some first-time voters in Johannesburg say they remain unclear about who is contesting in their communities ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections, raising concerns about transparency and engagement with young voters. YNews took to the streets of Johannesburg on Tuesday to hear from young and first time voters about what they expect from those seeking to represent them. With political parties announcing their candidates for the November polls, young […]

September 29, 2026 29

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YNews Election Build-up | Joburg voters weigh service delivery and political choices ahead of local elections

With just over a month to go before South Africans head to the polls, Johannesburg voters say service delivery and whether political parties can deliver meaningful change will be key considerations ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. YNews took to the streets of Johannesburg’s CBD on Friday to gauge voters' expectations and readiness for the 4 November polls. For many residents, persistent problems with basic services have eroded confidence […]

September 25, 2026 45 2

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Final hours to register as IEC warns voters not to miss deadline

The clock is ticking for South Africans to register to vote or update their details ahead of the local government elections, with the Electoral Commission (IEC) warning that time is running out. Eligible voters have until midnight on Friday, 7 August, to register or update their details before the voters' roll closes ahead of the 4 November elections. IEC Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Sy Mamabolo, on Monday urged those who […]

August 3, 2026 51

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IEC announces second voter registration weekend after youth dominate turnout

The Electoral Commission (IEC) has announced a second voter registration weekend, set for 1 and 2 August, following a strong turnout by young South Africans during the latest registration drive ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. Close to 3 million voter registrations were recorded nationwide over the weekend of 20 and 21 June, which the IEC says reflects growing enthusiasm among young people to participate in elections. IEC chief, […]

June 22, 2026 80