#IMadeMyMark: 18-year-olds urged to vote in 2026 Local Government Elections
The IEC encourages voter participation, highlighting how elections shape communities and democracy.
South Africans aged 18 and older are being called on by the Electoral Commission (IEC) to exercise their constitutional right in the upcoming 2026 Local Government Elections.
The commission said the Bill of Rights grants every adult citizen the right to vote, offering an opportunity to participate in decision-making that affects their lives and the country’s future.
“History shows that democracies in danger of losing their freedom register frighteningly low voter turnouts. In thriving democracies, people vote in large numbers, and the people’s voice remains supreme,” the IEC stated.
The commission outlined top reasons why citizens should participate in the electoral process.
Democracy and constitutional rights
Citizens can vote because of the sacrifices made by previous generations. Voting requires presenting an ID at a voting station during a registration event, which places a citizen on the voters’ roll for life for all future general and by-elections in their area.
Elections have consequences, as voting allows people to decide on their quality of life and stand up for issues they care about. The commission noted that voting is the best way to make a voice heard, rather than venting on social media or protesting.
Financial accountability and change
Not voting means giving up a voice and allowing others to make decisions for the next five years.
Taxes are paid by all citizens, even when buying a loaf of bread, and voting provides a chance to choose how those funds are spent on social services, healthcare, and schooling.
Democracy only works if citizens actively participate, requiring constant renewal among citizens to make it flourish.
Voting is an opportunity for change, as five years is a long time to be stuck with something that does not work.
Technology and connectivity mean the current generation is well informed and equipped to vote, with access to information through social media and the internet.
- Source: IEC website [https://www.elections.org.za/pw/Voter/Why-Vote]
