eMalahleni residents from different sectors of society gathered at Emalahleni City Hall on October 21 for a prayer service for peaceful local government elections, led by the Emalahleni Local Municipality speaker, Clr Nombuso Milicent Shabangu.

The gathering brought together pastors, traditional healers, traditional leaders, law enforcement officers, community members, gospel artists and various stakeholders who joined hands in prayer for peace, unity and stability ahead of the local government elections on November 4.

The service focused on promoting peaceful and tolerant elections while encouraging residents to work together to build social cohesion within communities. Special prayers were offered for a peaceful electoral process, community safety and the well-being of residents. Shabangu described the prayer service as uplifting and motivating, saying it highlighted the important role that prayer, unity and collective responsibility play in creating a peaceful environment during the election period.

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Patrols target municipal hotspots

In addition to prayers for peaceful elections, members of the community also prayed against gender-based violence, calling for safer communities and greater protection for vulnerable groups.

Also addressing concerns around election-related safety, Shabangu confirmed that law enforcement agencies have deployed vehicles to identified hotspots across the municipality.

She said patrols will continue throughout the city to help maintain peace and ensure residents feel safe during the election period.

Traditional leader Ndabezitha Sipho Mahlangu of the SoGutjhe Royal House also expressed confidence in the preparations for the elections.

After the event, Shabangu extended her sincere appreciation to all churches, religious leaders, speakers, gospel artists, community members and stakeholders who participated in the service.

She encouraged residents to continue promoting peace, tolerance and social cohesion as the municipality prepares for the upcoming elections. Shabangu concluded by calling on residents to continue praying and working together towards peaceful elections and a united eMalahleni.

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— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) October 28, 2026

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