IEC launches online voter registration drive
The IEC has opened its online self-registration portal, allowing eligible voters to register, verify or update their details.
ALTHOUGH the official date of the 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE) has not been released, the IEC has launched an online self-registration campaign for new voters as well as existing voters who wish to change, verify, or update their voting status.
According to the commission, for the 2026 LGE, the registration closes on the proclamation day, but it doesn’t mean that the next day one cannot register, however it would only be for the next elections. “This explains why we say it’s ongoing.”
The Deputy Head of Communications at the IEC, David Mandaha, said, “We have launched the online campaign to encourage all eligible voters to take advantage of the convenience of the self-registration portal, ahead of the LGE 2026.”
Also read: IEC pushes for voter registration ahead of 2026 polls
He added that the portal has proven to be very effective in the past. He emphasised that voters must register where they live, and vote where they registered. “This ensures voters can continue to shape the affairs of their communities by participating in elections in the wards where they ordinarily reside.”
Acting Chief Electoral Officer George Mahlangu said, “Furthermore, the IEC is intensifying voter registration and civic education initiatives at institutions of learning nationwide, reinforcing civic and democracy drives aimed at young people.”
Also read: Local elections 2021: Role of municipal councillors
The online portal was introduced in 2021. The current number of registered voters stands at 27 718 204, the IEC reported. The youth demographic stands at 7 756 911. “It underscores the urgent need to mobilise young people ahead of the elections.”
The local elections will take place “later in the year”. Eligible South Africans aged 16 years and older, with a valid identity document, can register to vote or update their details online by visiting Registertovote.elections.org.za
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