Pretoria:With the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) set to announce the final results of the 2026 Local Government Elections on Sunday, 8 November, focus shifts to the formation of new municipal councils. The incoming councillors will be tasked with enhancing governance, accountability, and service delivery.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Department of Cooperative Governance (DCoG), National Treasury, and the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) have issued guidelines to assist provinces and municipalities in the transition process. These guidelines, signed on 30 September 2026, detail steps for establishing municipal councils, electing political office-bearers, managing coalition arrangements, and implementing municipal development priorities.
The guidelines emerge amidst a backdrop of challenges in governance, infrastructure, service delivery, and political stability within local governments. As coalition-led municipalities have increased since the 2021 elections, the need for political stability and effective governance is emphasized. The guidelines urge stakeholders to ensure stability, ethical leadership, and sound financial management during this transition.
The establishment of new municipal councils will follow the declaration of election results, with municipal managers responsible for convening the first council meeting within 14 days. This meeting will include the election of key political office-bearers and the determination of committee compositions. The guidelines also address coalition negotiations, emphasizing adherence to constitutional and legal requirements while encouraging timely agreements.
Additionally, a formal handover from outgoing to incoming councils is planned, with detailed reports to ensure continuity and awareness of the state of municipalities. Guidelines stress the importance of financial accountability, urging councils to prioritize budgets, creditor payments, and audit processes. The need for strong consequence management and prevention of misuse of public funds is highlighted.
Incoming councils must review municipal planning and governance instruments, including Integrated Development Plans and ward committee establishments. The District Development Model will continue to promote intergovernmental cooperation, with emphasis on aligning municipal planning with approved plans.
DCoG, National Treasury, and SALGA have committed to supporting the transition, focusing on ethical leadership and responsive local governance. All stakeholders are encouraged to address fraud, corruption, and governance failures decisively.