IEC opens special vote applications for 2026 local elections

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) of South Africa has announced that applications for special votes in the upcoming 2026 Local Government Elections have opened, with the deadline set for October 12, 17:00.

Special votes are available for two primary groups: those who are unable to physically attend a voting station due to a disability, and voters who cannot vote at their designated station on election day, such as those working in essential services or the media.

Interested voters can apply for a special vote through the IEC's official website, by sending their ID number via SMS to 32249 at a cost of R1.00 per message, or by visiting a local IEC office and submitting a Special Vote Application form.

The IEC emphasizes that special vote applications are open, providing registered voters with the opportunity to cast their ballot before Election Day if they fall into one of the specified categories: living with a disability, pregnant women, elderly people, or those with work-related commitments.

The IEC has also finalized the list of candidates for the 2026 Local Government Elections.