As preparations intensify for the upcoming local government elections, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has spent the past year focused on extensive voter education, sustained stakeholder engagement, and strengthening its electoral systems to lay a solid foundation for the polls.

IEC chief electoral officer Sy Mamabolo said the commission continues to engage communities while deepening democratic awareness.

He added that online voter registration remains available to ensure the process is simpler, smarter and more accessible for all eligible voters.

The next local government elections are expected to take place between November 2026 and no later than January 2027.

“Preparation is already under way, and participation begins now.

“All eligible voters are encouraged to make use of the commission’s digital platforms to ensure their voter registration details are correct and up to date. Register where you live. Vote where you are registered,” said Mamabolo.

In King Cetshwayo District, there are 107 wards and 563 voting districts. During the 2024 voter registration drive, the region closed with a total of 503 395 registered voters.

Of these, the City of uMhlathuze recorded 206 073 registered voters, uMlalazi Municipality 111 422, uMfolozi 76 744, Nkandla 62 149 and Mthonjaneni 47 007.

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