IEC CEO Sy Mamabolo said preparations for the voter registration weekend have advanced.
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers
The Electoral Commission of South Africa says preparations for the 20 and 21 June voter registration weekend are well advanced, setting the stage for the 2026 Local Government Elections.
Speaking in Midrand on Wednesday, IEC CEO Sy Mamabolo confirmed that nearly 24,000 registration stations will open nationwide to assist citizens in updating or confirming their voting details.
He said 800 outreach coordinators have been deployed and more than 62,000 community mobilisation events have already been conducted to drive voter awareness across the country.
The Department of Home Affairs will also extend operating hours at selected offices to help citizens apply for identity documents ahead of registration weekend.
Mamabolo said the tertiary institution campaign has reached about 97,000 students, with 45,000 already registered during ongoing mobilisation drives.
Under the theme “Get Up. Show Up. Vote.” the IEC said it is encouraging active participation and strengthening awareness of electoral timelines and processes.
Officials warned that while social media expands access to information it also increases risks of manipulation and misinformation that could undermine electoral integrity.
Political parties have already begun announcing mayoral candidates in major metros, including Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and Tshwane, where tightly contested races are expected.
IEC said the weekend will be a critical moment for strengthening democratic participation as South Africa moves closer to the 2026 local elections.
It further urged all eligible citizens to register, verify their details, and ensure they are ready to vote when polls open across the country.
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za
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