Pretoria:Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has urged all South Africans to safeguard democracy by ensuring peaceful and fair Local Government Elections (LGE) on November 4, 2026. In his role as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Local Government Elections, Hlabisa emphasized the importance of incident-free elections.
According to South African Government News Agency, the IMC has confirmed the government's dedication to supporting the Electoral Commission (IEC) in managing the elections smoothly while maintaining the Commission's independence. The committee, consisting of key government departments and institutions, is focused on logistical support and creating a secure electoral environment.
The IMC reported that the IEC received 142,072 candidate nominations for 10,526 council seats, showing increased participation compared to the 2021 elections. The voters' roll has surpassed 29 million, with significant new voter registrations, particularly among younger citizens.
The IEC has assured its readiness for the elections, declaring its Results System fully prepared after thorough testing and auditing. It has also launched its National Results Operations Centre to oversee the results from 23,696 voting stations. Special voting is available for eligible individuals on November 2 and 3.
Minister Hlabisa called on South Africans, especially the youth, to exercise their right to vote, stressing the impact on municipal leadership and service delivery. The IMC encouraged registered voters to motivate others to participate, warning against apathy and emphasizing the importance of each vote in strengthening democracy.
The government has prioritized election security, addressing potential cybersecurity threats and misinformation. Political parties and supporters are urged to maintain peace and respect differing views. The public is advised to verify information through credible sources before sharing it.
The South African Weather Service has predicted no significant adverse weather on election day, though preparations for potential heat and water conservation remain advised. The Department of Home Affairs will extend operating hours to facilitate identity document collection and applications, ensuring citizens can vote.
Minister Hlabisa reiterated the collective responsibility for credible elections, encouraging peaceful participation to protect democracy and ensure free and fair elections.