IEC Opens Special Vote Applications Ahead of 2026 Local Government Elections
PRETORIA — The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has opened applications for special votes ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections, scheduled for 4 November 2026.
Applications opened on Monday, 21 September 2026, and eligible registered voters have until 17:00 on Monday, 12 October 2026, to apply.
Special voting arrangements are available to voters who will be unable to cast their ballots on election day because of specific circumstances.
These include home visits for voters who are physically infirm or have disabilities, as well as special votes at voting stations for people who will be working or away from their registered voting districts on 4 November. Essential-services workers and members of the media who meet the requirements may also apply.
According to information published by the South African Government, voters can apply through the IEC’s online platform at elections.org.za. Voting-station special vote applications can also be made by SMSing an identity number to 32249, at a cost of R1.00 per SMS.
Applicants may alternatively complete the required application form and hand-deliver it to their local municipal IEC office.
Successful applicants will be able to cast their ballots during the two days before election day, either at their registered voting station or, where applicable, at their registered address.
The IEC has urged eligible voters who require special voting arrangements to submit their applications before the 12 October deadline.
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