South Africans urged to register this weekend ahead of November local government elections
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has opened nearly 23,700 voting stations across South Africa this weekend for the final in-person voter registration drive ahead of the 4 November 2026 Local Government Elections.
Voting stations will operate from 8am to 5pm on 1 and 2 August, giving unregistered voters and those needing to update their details a last chance to do so in person.
IEC Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo urged eligible citizens to register, stressing that local elections are ward-based and voters must be registered where they ordinarily live.
Voters need a South African ID (smart ID, green barcoded ID book or valid temporary ID). No proof of address is required. Home Affairs offices are also open this weekend from 8am to 5pm for ID applications and collections.
The IEC’s online registration portal will remain available until the election is officially proclaimed, after which the voters’ roll will close.
With fewer than 100 days until election day, the IEC is encouraging all eligible South Africans to register before the deadline.