Cape town: The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has called upon young South Africans to participate actively in the upcoming 2026 Local Government Elections by registering to vote. This initiative is aimed at empowering the youth to contribute to the development of their municipalities.
According to South African Government News Agency, this appeal coincides with Youth Month in South Africa and the national voter registration weekend set for 20 and 21 June 2026. SALGA has highlighted that this registration period is a crucial opportunity for eligible voters to register or update their voting details in their respective districts.
Through its Youth Commission, SALGA is amplifying efforts to engage young people, amidst growing concerns over declining voter participation and increasing skepticism towards democratic processes.
Recent Public Opinion Research conducted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) indicates that the 2026 Local Government Elections are occurring in a climate of public pessimism and diminished democratic engagement. The research reveals that 62% of unregistered voters have no plans to register, while only 38% expressed willingness to consider registration.
Lucky Sele, Chairperson of the SALGA Youth Commission, expressed concern over findings showing that more than 60% of non-registered young adults aged 18 to 34 do not plan to register, which could exclude millions of potential first-time and second-time voters from the electoral process.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has initiated its 2026 election campaign with the slogan 'Get Up, Show Up, Vote', focusing on young people as critical participants in reinforcing democratic engagement. SALGA asserts that local democracy is fortified when young individuals play an active role in shaping council decisions, priorities, and policies impacting their everyday lives.
Sele emphasized the importance of youth involvement in decisions affecting employment, service delivery, accountability, and community futures. As part of Youth Month activities, the SALGA Youth Commission will implement a targeted mobilisation programme throughout June 2026. This initiative will feature public awareness campaigns, media engagements, and youth dialogues to stimulate greater participation in local democracy and the forthcoming elections.