Overview
- After nationwide consultations that closed on 30 September, the IEC confirmed electronic voting will not be used in the next local elections, citing submissions that favored phased pilots, hybrid paper‑digital models, extensive voter education, and accessibility safeguards.
- The IEC will consolidate inputs and submit a revised policy paper to Parliament, with a separate draft amendment bill scheduled for presentation to the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs on 18 November to refine electoral procedures.
- From January to September 2025, 305,206 new voters registered and 60,752 updated details, with 76.8% captured via Voter Management Devices, 12% online, and 10% at IEC offices, reflecting strong digital uptake led by first‑time voters.
- Logistical preparations continue with the Municipal Demarcation Board set to hand over new ward boundaries in December, the election date still to be announced by the Home Affairs Minister, and by‑elections ceasing for ward vacancies arising on or after 30 April 2026 to prevent confusion close to the polls.
- Oversight remains a focus as the IEC reports achieving 92% of 2024/25 performance targets, a 90% political‑funding compliance rate among represented parties with directives issued to Build One SA and the National Coloured Congress, and a party roster now totaling 508 after 62 new registrations since 2024.