Pretoria:South Africans are set to participate in the Local Government Elections on November 4, 2026, to elect their local government representatives.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has scheduled special voting for November 2 and 3, 2026, from 8 am to 5 pm. On Election Day, the voting stations will be open from 7 am to 9 pm.
Before Election Day, voters are encouraged to verify their voter registration details and confirm their designated voting stations. Voter details can be checked online at the IEC website, via SMS by sending the 13-digit ID number to 32810, or by contacting the IEC's WhatsApp number, 060 088 0000.
Voters must bring an acceptable identity document to the polls, such as a smart ID card, green barcoded ID book, or a valid temporary identity certificate. The IEC has advised against using driver's licenses, passports, student cards, or photocopies of ID documents, as these will not be accepted.
Upon arrival at a voting station, election officials will verify voters' identities and registration details before marking their thumbnails with indelible ink to prevent double voting. Voters will then receive their ballot papers.
The number of ballot papers depends on the municipality of registration. Voters in metropolitan municipalities will receive two ballot papers one for choosing a ward councillor and another for proportional representation in the metropolitan council. Those in local municipalities will receive three ballot papers, including one for district municipal council representation.
Voters are reminded to mark their ballots with a clear X next to their chosen candidate or political party. In case of a mistake, voters should seek assistance from the Presiding Officer before placing the ballot in the ballot box.