South Africa’s (SA) Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has approved more than 2.6 million special vote applications ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections, 131% increase from the 2021 municipal elections, when just over 1.1 million applications were received.
IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya says more than 678 000 voters have applied for home visits, while close to two million are expected to cast their special votes at voting stations.
“The figures show that Gauteng has the highest number of special vote applications, with 391 589. Special votes, introduced in municipal elections in 2011, cater for people who are elderly, ill or living with disabilities, as well as those unable to vote at their registered stations on Election Day. Member of the Executive Council (MEC) seven votes have also increased over the years, from just over 55 000 in 2016 to more than 98 000 in the 2021 elections.”
Moepya is also reminded voters that they must vote at the voting station where they are registered.
Those voting at another station within their ward must produce proof of registration and complete an MEC seven form to receive a ballot.
–ChannelAfrica/SABC–
