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2026 Local Government Elections: Know the rules, make your vote count

Before you head to the polls, make sure you know the rules!

Voting is an important right and responsibility that allows every citizen to have a voice in choosing their leaders.

As our readers get ready to head to the polls on November 4 and to make sure the voting process is fair, peaceful, and transparent, it is important to understand the do’s and don’ts of voting.

Here is a guide to some do’s and don’ts of voting:

Do’s:

  • Check your registration and voting station before voting.
  • Bring your valid ID.
  • Be patient and respectful in the queue.
  • Ask an election official if you need help.
  • Keep your vote secret.

Don’ts:

  • Campaign or try to influence anyone at or near the voting station.
  • Take photos of your marked ballot paper.
  • Take a ballot paper out of the voting station.
  • Ask or pressure anyone to tell you how they voted.
  • Bring weapons or dangerous items to the voting station.
  • Vote more than once.

Voting do’s and don’ts for party representatives:

Do’s:

  • Carry your official appointment letter or accreditation.
  • Stay in the area the Presiding Officer indicates.
  • Observe the voting and counting processes.
  • Raise concerns politely with the Presiding Officer.

Don’ts:

  • Campaign inside the voting station boundary.
  • Tell voters how they should vote.
  • Touch ballot papers, ballot boxes or election materials.
  • Hinder voters or slow down the queue.
  • Intimidate voters or election staff.

By following the correct procedures, respecting others, and making informed choices, we can help protect the integrity of elections and strengthen our democracy.

WATCH| Election Day 2026 | Do’s and don’ts for voters and party agents:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZshAcOFEFA

ALSO READ: Pretoria east first-time voters eager to make mark in November local election

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Elize Parker

Elize Parker is a senior journalist with more than 25 years of experience covering especially environmental, municipal and profile articles. She writes investigative reports, profiles, social articles and consumer related articles and also does photographs and multimedia to go with these. Previously she worked as a news editor for a radio station, news reader, a magazine journalist with women’s magazines and as a column writer.
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