Update at 15:10

More than 1.5 million registered voters were expected at the polls as all 1 604 voting stations across the Free State opened on schedule today (November 4), backed by 10 826 electoral officials.

Bloemfontein Courant reported that Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) Free State provincial manager Itumeleng Liba confirmed no major problems were reported by this morning, though some stations experienced minor delays with voter management devices.

“We have visited a number of stations and observed that the situation has since improved. We hope that the current situation would continue, until we close at 21:00,” Liba said.

The IEC also reminded approved special voters who were unable to cast their ballots during the two-day special voting window that they can still vote at their designated voting stations until 21:00 tonight.

Health facilities on high alert

In another artilce, Bloemfontein Courant reported that the Free State Department of Health deployed emergency medical resources across the province to respond to potential trauma, violence, and general medical emergencies.

Preparations also target non-communicable conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular illnesses. Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi urged voters on chronic medication to take their prescriptions before heading to stations and reminded citizens to stay hydrated while queueing.

Arrangements are in place across hospital casualty units, including private-public healthcare partnerships and dedicated capacity at the Pelonomi Trauma Centre, to handle incoming emergencies.

Midday turnout in Bloemfontein

By midday, 435 voters had cast their ballots at the NG Kerk voting station. IEC presiding officer Itumeleng Mokolobate reported a notable number of newly registered and younger voters exercising their franchise. Only one cancelled ballot had been recorded at the station by noon.

Parys resident interview

Speaking outside a voting station in Parys, a local resident reflected on why taking part in the election matters for younger generations, noting that voting helps ensure every citizen counts and expressing hope for economic improvement:

“We want to see unemployment bouncing back, depreciating… and even the rand is still losing its value, so we want to see the changes so we can assist our GDP to be the best.”

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Update at 11:54

Activity is well underway at voting stations across the province as community members turn out to cast their ballots, with several residents sharing their experiences and reflections on Election Day.

Voters queued early in the morning at voting stations in Parys. One of the younger voters speaks about the importance of casting a ballot.

Aaron and Elizabeth Norkee speak from the heart about the election.

While another voter was pleasantly surprised by her experience at the voting station.

Waiting times at Wild Olive Estate

Bloemfontein Courant‘s Gypseenia Lion was at CRC in Wild Olive Estate, where residents have turned out in numbers to make their mark in the 2026 Local Government Elections, with an average waiting time of 20 minutes. Residents Henry van Rooyen and Tom Ndumo, alongside VF Plus ward candidate Braam Vorster, shared their thoughts on the voting process.

Slow start in Heidedal

Voting activity in Heidedal got off to a slow start this morning, with residents gradually making their way to the polls. Bloemfontein Courant visited several stations – including Heatherdale Secondary School, Norman Doubell Hall and Olympia Primary School – where only a small number of voters had gathered.

Some elderly residents who turned out to cast their ballots shared their thoughts on the importance of exercising their democratic right and having a say in the future of their communities.

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Published at 09:14

Polling stations are openend at 07:00 and will close at 21:00. This Caxton Network News blog will be updated with things happening in the Free State.

Parys Gazette shared what you need to know about Election Day

• No children under 18 are allowed inside voting stations
• You can vote only at the voting station where you are registered
• Only registered South African citizens aged 18 and older can vote
• Take your green barcoded ID book, smart ID card or temporary identification certificate with you when you vote
• People with disabilities can request assistance from IEC officials inside the voting station
• If you make a mistake on a ballot paper, notify the presiding officer in the voting station before placing it in the ballot box so that you can receive a replacement
• Make a clear X next to the party or candidate of your choice to indicate your vote

Remember that you will receive three ballot papers

• Ward ballot
• Proportional representation ballot
• District ballot
• Make sure you place each ballot paper into the correct ballot box

How it works at the voting station

• You will be asked to present your identity document to the electoral officer
• Your details are verified on the voters’ roll and your name is crossed off
• Your thumb is marked with ink
• You receive three officially stamped ballot papers (ensure they are stamped)
• Mark a clear X next to your choice on each ballot paper
• Fold your ballot papers and place them in the marked ballot boxes
• Leave the voting station

The IEC has also urged registered voters to verify their details through these channels: 

• WhatsApp: 0600 88 0000 
• IEC Contact Centre: 0800 11 8000 
• SMS: 32810 (R1 per SMS) 

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