Roodepoort residents turn out to vote in 2026 Local Elections

Residents joined millions of South Africans in exercising their democratic right as they headed to the polls for the 2026 Local Government Elections.

Special voting took place from November 2 to 3 for registered voters who were unable to vote on Election Day due to illness, disability or other approved circumstances. Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) officials assisted voters at designated voting stations and also conducted approved home visits.

Residents then returned to the polls on Wednesday, November 4, for the main Election Day.

Voters were seen queuing at polling stations, including Ruimsig Stadium, Rigdecrest Family Church and others, to cast their ballots for their municipal representatives.

The elections allow residents to elect councillors who will serve in municipal councils and make decisions that affect everyday life.

According to one of the first-time voters, Chante Mashilwane, she is voting to bring change in unemployment, education inequalities and failure to deliver basic services to communities.

“We as the youth need to step up and bring about change in our communities using the democratic right vested within us,” she added.

For Roodepoort communities, local government is particularly important in addressing service delivery, water and electricity supply, road maintenance, refuse collection, infrastructure and community development.

Through their participation, residents exercised their constitutional right to have a say in who represents them and how their communities are governed.

The IEC confirmed and verified votes on Sunday, November 8, and the voted candidates are expected to take office soon.