With just days to go to the Local Government Elections (LGE), the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has urged every registered voter to prioritise the election and help choose ethical, capable and accountable leaders who will shape the future of local government.
“Millions of voters are expected to go to the polls on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, ushering in the seventh administration of local government. Registered special voters will cast their ballots on Monday, 2 November and Tuesday, 3 November 2026, from 8am to 5pm. The 2026 Local Government Elections mark a defining moment for the sector,” SALGA said in a statement.
The elections follow the launch of the Revised White Paper on Local Government, which reflects three decades of local governance, acknowledges persistent shortcomings and sets out a bold vision for renewing the system.
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The White Paper safeguards the developmental mandate and constitutional status of municipalities while calling for democratic, accountable and capable institutions that deliver reliable services, maintain infrastructure, support development and act in the public interest.
SALGA said communities have a decisive role in building a responsive and agile local government system. It said that responsibility begins with electing leaders who are prepared to serve with integrity and put the public first.
“Voting is therefore more than a constitutional right: it is a civic responsibility and a vital part of the social compact through which citizens hold local government to account. The strength of local government depends on the leaders communities elect. SALGA, therefore, calls on all eligible South Africans to use the remaining days before the 2026 Local Government Elections to consider carefully the calibre, integrity and commitment of the candidates seeking to represent their wards and councils,” it said.
It further added that the promise of a renewed era of local governance rests largely in the hands of elected representatives and in the choices voters make at the ballot box.
“In view of changing weather conditions, SALGA advises communities to monitor warnings and guidance from the South African Weather Service and relevant state authorities, and to plan accordingly for a safe and smooth voting experience. Voters are encouraged to arrive at their voting stations as early as possible on 4 November, which has been declared a public holiday.”
SALGA said every vote is an opportunity to choose leaders who will strengthen local democracy, improve services and place communities at the centre of government.
Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs will extend operational hours at all its front offices to ensure that eligible voters have access to their identity documents required to participate in the Local Government Elections on 4 November 2026.
“The extended hours will enable eligible voters to collect their identity documents or apply for identity documents and Temporary Identity Certificates (TICs),” the Department of Home Affairs said earlier this week.
From 2 - 3 November 2026, Home Affairs offices will be open from 8am to 6pm to enable citizens to collect completed identity documents, apply for identity documents or obtain Temporary Identity Certificates (TICs) where applicable.
On Election Day, 4 November 2026, Home Affairs offices will operate from 7am to 9pm, in alignment with the Electoral Commission of South Africa’s (IEC) operational hours. -SAnews.gov.za
