The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS) has reiterated that law enforcement stands ready to keep South African citizens safe while exercising their right to vote in the 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE).
NatJOINTS co-chairperson Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili briefed the media on Tuesday evening ahead of the Local Government Elections to be held on Wednesday, 4 November.
“Our state of readiness remains at the highest operational level, with the necessary capacity, resources, coordination and contingency arrangements in place to secure the 2026 Local Government Elections.
“We are ready to execute our responsibilities and to ensure that South Africans can exercise their democratic rights in a peaceful, safe and secure environment,” she said at Tuesday’s media briefing.
Mosikili assured that law enforcement is approaching Election Day fully prepared for potential challenges and with an appreciation of the “risks that may arise”.
“Our operational planning has taken into consideration the prevailing security environment, historical incidents, intelligence information and potential threats that could affect the electoral process.
“We have contingency measures in place to ensure that any emerging situation is addressed promptly and that the safety of voters and the integrity of the electoral process are not compromised,” she explained.
South Africans are also encouraged to work with law enforcement to ensure that elections are safe and peaceful.
“Exercise your democratic right to vote, respect the rights of others, refrain from spreading misinformation, avoid acts of intimidation and comply with the laws of the country. The success of the elections is a collective responsibility.
“While the Security Cluster will fulfil its mandate, the cooperation of political parties, communities, traditional leaders, civil society and every eligible voter remains essential,” she said.
Turning to the role of participating candidates and their formations, Mosikili reminded that in line with the electoral timetable, no campaigning may be held beyond midnight tonight.
READ | NATJOINTS: No campaigning permitted on Voting Day
“There must be no political persuasion, solicitation or intimidation of voters at or around voting stations.
“Every eligible voter must be afforded the opportunity to exercise their democratic right freely, without undue influence, intimidation or interference from any political party or individual,” she stated.
The co-chairperson highlighted that protests on Election Day are prohibited.
“We wish to make it clear that any person found contravening Section 76 of the Municipal Electoral Act 27 of 2000, or any other applicable provision of the law, will be dealt with accordingly.
“Our intention as law enforcement agencies is not to prevent people from exercising their constitutional and democratic rights. On the contrary, our deployment is intended to create an environment in which every South African can safely access a voting station and cast their vote without fear, intimidation or disruption,” Mosikili stated.
READ | Law enforcement steps up readiness for Election Day
Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission (IEC) said it is ready for the elections.
READ | All systems go for Election Day
“We urge voters, political parties, independent candidates, observers and all stakeholders to uphold the principles of democracy, respect the electoral process and contribute to a peaceful Election Day.
“The Commission remains committed to ensuring that every eligible voter is afforded the opportunity to cast their ballot in a free, fair, credible and peaceful electoral process,” IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya said at a media briefing. -SAnews.gov.za
