Six things to know about the 2026 local elections

SOUTH Africans are gearing up for the 2026 local government elections, with preparations already under way. Here's what you need to know ahead of next year’s polls.

- HOPE NTANZI

Voter registration is growing: From January to September, over 300000 South Africans registered as first-time voters, with September seeing the highest monthly registrations at 71324, according to Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) deputy chief electoral officer, Masego Sheburi. An additional 60000 voters updated their registration details due to moving or changing addresses.

Sheburi noted that the Voter Management Device (VMD) was used in 76% of new registrations, with 12% completed online and 10% at local IEC offices. “Voters are once again reminded to register where they live and to vote where they are registered,” he said. The VMD helps ensure voters are registered at their correct addresses. Accurate addresses allow political parties to engage constituents effectively and ensure that ballots are cast in the areas where voters ordinarily reside.