Final voter registration push before election proclamation

Eligible voters encouraged to use online platforms, including WhatsApp, to register to vote in the upcoming Local Government Elections

17 seconds ago

Muzi Zincume 1 minute read

With the election proclamation planned for Friday (tomorrow), eligible voters have one last chance to register via the online portal or the newly launched WhatsApp platform.

The IEC hopes to leverage the platform used daily by millions of South Africans to maximise voter registration.

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IEC spokesperson Kate Bapela said they are expanding the online registration modality to make it even more accessible and convenient.

“The commission announces the introduction of voter registration on the WhatsApp platform. The modality provides an intuitive, convenient and mobile-friendly way to register or update voter details given the ubiquitous nature of the platform.

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“The platform uses secure identity verification measures, including OTP authentication, ID document uploads, address verification and voting station confirmation to protect the integrity of the voters’ roll.

“While WhatsApp registration forms part of a broader voter registration offering, accurate address validation remains critical to a successful registration process.

“To support this, some voters may be redirected to the interactive map on the Online Voter Registration platform to locate and confirm the rooftop location of their home address,” she said.

Voters have until the close of the registration period at midnight on 7 August 2026.

How to register

• Check registration status: SMS 32810
• For registration assistance: Call the Contact Centre on 0800 11 8000
• Register to vote: IEC WhatsApp line 0600 088 000 | www.elections.org.za

Don’t have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here: