Special voting for South Africa’s 2026 local government elections took place on 2 and 3 November, ahead of election day on 4 November. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) approved over 2.6 million voters to cast special ballots, designed for those unable to vote at their usual stations due to disability, work, or other constraints.
SAnews reported that 1,425,942 voters participated in the special voting nationally over the two days. In Atteridgeville, west of Pretoria, special voters used the opportunity to stress the importance of voting as a means to bring tangible change to their communities.
Kholofelo Magodielo, who used a special vote at Zodwa Special School, said her retail work commitments on election day prevented her from voting in person. She emphasised the need for better local services and accountability from councillors, highlighting that voting is a call for change. “Voting in this Local Government Elections is basically saying, ‘I need to see change in my community, better services, and see my counsellor, making sure that they are available and able to deliver services to us,'” Magodielo told SAnews. “When we call upon them, they must be able to answer to our calls.”
Another Atteridgeville voter, Taki Masindi, cast his special vote at Motheong Primary School because he expected to be working on election day. He said, “I applied for the special vote because I didn’t want to miss my chance to make my voice heard. I don’t want to be complaining on the sidelines while doing nothing.” Masindi also called for active participation, stressing that voting is crucial to shaping the change ahead. “It is important to cast your vote so that you have a hand in the change that’s coming.”
Masindi expressed a desire for a decisive mandate without coalition governments. “My wish is that there is a party that can win without coalition, so that the party can take decisions by itself,” he said, reflecting a longing for clearer governance.
The IEC opened special vote applications on 21 September and closed them on 12 October, aiming to broaden voting access. This system ensures that voters with physical infirmity, those travelling, or with work commitments can participate.
The 2026 local government elections are critical for communities across South Africa, including the Cape Flats, where residents continue to demand improved municipal services and accountability. Special voting played an important role in capturing these voices ahead of election day.
CapeFlats.co.za will continue to monitor election developments and report on voter engagement and outcomes in the region as results unfold.