IEC reports 3.5m ballots cast by 10:00 in 2026 Local Government Elections
Voting stations across the country have opened smoothly overall, despite isolated service delivery protests and an investigation into stolen ballots in KZN.
Two hours after voting stations opened, preliminary counts from the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) showed that 3.5 million votes had been cast.
According to the IEC, the start of the 2026 Local Government Elections today (November 4) went smoothly across the country, with 98% of the 23 696 voting stations having opened by 07:00.
“A few voting stations opened by 09:00 due to localised protests and access challenges in the Eastern Cape and KZN,” said the IEC.
The commission reported that by 10:00, indications showed 3.5 million citizens had voted nationwide.
Provincial turnout figures:
- Gauteng: 895 384
- KZN: 623 380
- Western Cape: 461 264
- Eastern Cape: 431 123
- Limpopo: 366 378
- Mpumalanga: 252 859
- North West: 204 736
- Free State: 195 537
- Northern Cape: 93 030
Police investigate KZN ballot theft
The IEC has received a report of the theft of unused ballot papers and a stamp in KZN.
“The provincial office has reported the incident to the SAPS and a case has been opened. Investigations into the matter are underway. The commission has taken all precautionary measures to ensure that the stolen ballots cannot be unlawfully used,” the IEC said.
Voter guidance on municipal ballots
The IEC noted that, unlike national and provincial elections, the number of ballot papers issued in the local government elections depends on the type of municipality.
Voters are also reminded to make one clear X (cross) in the designated box next to their preferred candidate or political party on each ballot paper.
“Marking more than one choice or making additional marks may result in the ballot being declared spoilt. Voters who are visually impaired will be assisted using the universal ballot template,” it added.
Voters are also reminded to verify their registration details before going to vote by using one of the following channels:
- Sending their ID number via WhatsApp to 0600 88 0000
- Sending their ID number by SMS to 32810 at a cost of R1 per SMS
- Calling the contact centre on 0800 11 8000
- Checking registration on www.elections.org.za
Voters will receive the name of their registered voting station and their voters’ roll sequence number.
The IEC appeals to remaining registered voters to go out and vote, as well as to remain patient and co-operative should they experience queues or delays at voting stations.
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Read original story on www.citizen.co.za
