The upcoming 2026 local government elections in South Africa are set to see a surge in political parties, with 34 new parties registered since the 2024 national and provincial elections. This brings the total number of registered parties to 472, with 287 on a national level and 185 at the provincial or municipal level.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has announced that consultations will begin with unrepresented parties and independent candidates to prepare them for the polls. These sessions will cover election laws, contesting requirements, and the conversion of votes into seats.
The current municipal council term ends on 2 November 2026, with elections required to be held within 90 days. The minister of cooperative governance and traditional affairs will set the date in consultation with the IEC, placing the poll between November 2026 and the end of January 2027.
Despite the increase in registered parties, concerns about the financial viability of political organizations persist. The IEC has been urged to extend financial support to unrepresented parties at the municipal level to improve inclusivity and competitiveness against established organizations.
Recent amendments to the funding regime have raised the minimum disclosure threshold for donations and doubled the annual donation cap. The IEC is expected to make recommendations to parliament on possible adjustments to the funding system.
In preparation for the elections, the IEC has intensified its civic education drive, focusing on first-time voters and encouraging young people to register. With women making up a significant portion of the voters’ roll and voter turnout, the commission is also emphasizing gender inclusivity in political participation.
The IEC is also exploring the feasibility of introducing electronic voting, with public submissions closing in September. However, paper ballots will still be used in the 2026 elections to ensure credibility and transparency.
As the IEC remains focused on ensuring credible elections, Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo has emphasized the importance of every vote in shaping the future of communities. With preparations underway and a growing number of registered parties, the 2026 local government elections are set to be a significant event in South Africa’s political landscape.
