Ramaphosa shakes up electoral body ahead of 2026 vote

Zuko Komisa

President Ramaphosa has appointed Mosotho Moepya, Joyce Pitso, and Judge Dhaya Pillay to the IEC for seven-year terms.
The appointments come as South Africa gears up for the crucial 2026 local government elections.
Mosotho Moepya has been designated the new Chairperson of the electoral commission.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has named three new commissioners to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), ushering in a change of leadership as South Africa prepares for the crucial 2026 local government elections.

In a statement released by the Presidency, the appointments of Mosotho Moepya and Joyce Pitso as full-time members were confirmed. They are joined by Judge Dhaya Pillay, who will serve as a part-time commissioner.

The new appointees will each serve a seven-year term.

The President has designated Mosotho Moepya to take on the role of Chairperson of the commission.

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya indicated that Mr Ramaphosa holds great confidence in the newly appointed officials and offered them his best wishes as they begin their duties.

“The President wishes the commissioners well as they prepare to oversee free and fair elections in 2026,” Magwenya stated, emphasising the gravity of their forthcoming responsibilities.

The appointments are a strategic move to ensure the IEC is fully equipped and led ahead of the next major electoral cycle.