LGE 2026: SANDF on standby as police warn of tough action against election disruptions

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is on standby to assist police in safeguarding identified hotspots during the November 4 local government elections, as security authorities brace for potential violence, intimidation, and disruptions. Deputy National Commissioner for Policing and NATJOINTS Chairperson Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili announced that intelligence-led security operations have been activated across all nine provinces.

Police have completed security assessments at voting stations, with deployments based on identified threats and vulnerabilities. Special voting will occur from November 2 to 3 before the main election on November 4. The security cluster has developed contingency plans for responding to threats against the electoral process, with the SANDF standing ready to provide additional operational support as needed.

Mosikili stressed that security deployments aim to protect voters and election officials, not to restrict democratic participation. Security measures have been implemented across all levels of government, and the NATJOINTS Coordination Centre will serve as a national early-warning facility. Political parties and supporters are warned that campaigning must end by midnight on November 3, and intimidation or unlawful influence of voters would be considered electoral offences.

Demonstrations and marches are prohibited on election day, and authorities urge the public to avoid unnecessary gatherings near polling stations. Local tensions in KwaZulu-Natal and taxi-related violence in the Western Cape are being monitored. The Department of Home Affairs has extended operating hours to streamline election-related services.

Despite heightened security operations, police stations will remain open to respond to emergencies, investigate crimes, and maintain public order. Daily media briefings by NATJOINTS will keep the public informed of significant security developments.