Today marks the start of voting in the country’s Local Government elections, as several eligible voters who applied for special votes, cast the ballots in the voting stations they are registered in.
In Mpumalanga 292 775 eligible voters will line up in various voting stations to cast the ballots, as special votes, on Monday and on Tuesday. The Electoral Commission (IEC) of South Africa launched its Results Operations Centre in White River on Friday, reassuring voters the state of readiness to manage the 2026 elections.
Mpumalanga Premier, Mr. Mandla Ndlovu urges all eligible voters to exercise their rights to vote, as the country marks the start of the elections process. “Voting is a right enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. It gives you, as a citizen, the power to make a choice of your preferred party, and individuals to represent you in your Municipality. So use this opportunity to decide,” Premier Ndlovu asserted.
According to the IEC, Mpumalanga accounts for the 2 170 139 voters, out of the 29.2 million South Africans registered to vote nationally. This figure represents 7.42 percent of the national voters' roll. The province has 23 000 voting stations, with over 136 000 candidates contesting the elections.
Premier Ndlovu says the IEC’s readiness and reputation to manage the elections inspires hope for voters to cast their ballots from Monday, until on the 4th of November 2026. “The IEC has assured the nation that all systems, including the material required to deliver credible elections are in place. So every voter is guaranteed to cast their ballots in a system that will produce free and fair results. So let us all use this opportunity to amplify our voices,” Premier Ndlovu expatiated.
The recent launch of the Provincial Safer Festive Season Operation by the South African Police Services in Bushbuckridge Local Municipality boosted confidence about safety measures during the elections period, especially in areas identified as crime hot-spots. SAPS confirmed the deployment of law enforcement agencies to ensure that the elections take place peacefully.
Wednesday, 4 November 2026, has been declared a public holiday in the country to allow voters time to cast their votes, and all Voting stations will be open from 07h00 to 21h00.
In light of the El Niño weather conditions and the possibility of high temperatures in some parts of the province, Premier Ndlovu encouraged voters to take the necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses. He further urged them to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight while waiting in queues at voting stations, drink water for dehydration, and avoid potential medical emergencies that could affect their ability to participate in the elections.
ENDS...
Issued by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government
Office of the Premier
Enquiries: Mr George Mthethwa (Provincial Government Spokesperson)
Contact: 083 302 2774
Email:GPMthethwa@mpg.gov.za