President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed Wednesday November 4 as the date for Local Government Elections at a press briefing session..
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President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that South Africa’s 2026 Local Government Elections will take place on Wednesday, November 4.
While it has not yet been officially confirmed, however, based on precedent the day is likely to be declared a public holiday to allow voters a fair opportunity to go to the polls.
Acknowledging historically low voter turnout in previous elections and the limited time remaining for political parties to prepare during the press briefing session on Thursday, Ramaphosa said participation levels remain a concern.
He noted that political parties were aware that elections would take place this year and should already have begun their preparations.
“As government, it will be our task to make sure we get a good turnout,” Ramaphosa said.
He added that the media will play a critical role in encouraging participation.
“Media and media platforms will be key in getting everyone to spread the word,” he said.
“From today, the campaigning will start, and I myself will get involved with my party.”
Addressing voter apathy, Ramaphosa said party leaders must actively encourage citizens to vote. He added that Velenkosini Hlabisa, Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, has developed a plan to address low voter participation in the lead-up to the elections.
Hlabisa said the November 4 date was selected after considering the December festive period and the January back-to-school cycle, making it the most viable option.
“The Departments of Basic Education and Higher Education will have to plan accordingly so that there is flexibility at the time for the electoral process to unfold,” Hlabisa said.
“They must look at their timetables and plan accordingly.”
He added that the elections would coincide with a period when many first-time voters are preparing to cast their ballots.
Hlabisa said improving service delivery is key to addressing voter apathy, placing responsibility on current councillors to improve conditions in their wards.
“This period must be used to give people a chance to make their choice,” he said.
He reiterated that November 4 is likely to be declared a public holiday, pending confirmation by the president, to ensure voters are not forced to choose between work and voting.
“At the right time, it will be announced,” he said.
Hlabisa also revealed that a key meeting with stakeholders, including the Independent Electoral Commission South Africa (IEC), is scheduled for May 29 to discuss preparations for the elections.
He expressed gratitude to those involved in local government for their service to communities across the country.
In preparation for the polls, June 20 and 21 have been earmarked as voter registration days.
Political parties have welcomed the announcement of the election date. Michael Beaumont of ActionSA said:
“The election date couldn’t come soon enough because of collapsed services everywhere. We have been preparing for a long time; we are ready. The people of South Africa are ready.”
DAILY NEWS