IEC CEO, Sy Mamabolo, says the commission remains hopeful that more young people will make use of the upcoming local government elections registration window in June.
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Media
Ahead of the voter registration weekend set for next month and the local government elections in November, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has commended young people across the country's institutions of higher learning for their enthusiasm.
On Wednesday, during the IEC's unveiling of the official 2026 Local Government Elections campaign at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, IEC CEO Sy Mamabolo revealed that over 27.9 million South Africans are now eligible to vote, surpassing the 27.6 million from the 2024 national elections.
The IEC is hopeful that these numbers will rise during the upcoming voter registration weekend slated for June 20-21, with the surge attributed to young people's enthusiasm and the IEC's concerted voter education and other digital endeavors.
According to Mamabolo, the campaign has successfully reached 97,000 students through 1,086 activations across all nine provinces, resulting in 45,000 students registering to vote. "This reflects the campaign's significant impact in promoting youth participation in the electoral process."
The unveiling of the new campaign comes just weeks after President Cyril Ramaphosa officially announced November 4 as the date for South Africa’s upcoming local government elections, setting the stage for political parties and voters to begin preparations.
Mamabolo further revealed that the IEC has implemented an innovative communication strategy aimed at disseminating messages in real-time that resonate with the youth and are reflective of South African culture.
"Today, we are sharing our communication campaign, designed to raise awareness and generate enthusiasm around the importance of electoral participation. It is crucial to understand that electoral participation is a fundamental ingredient in deepening democracy," Mamabolo added.
He urged every eligible voter to take part by registering and voting on November 4.
Echoing this sentiment, IEC Chairperson, Mosotho Moepya, highlighted the importance of leveraging modern communication trends to ensure free and fair elections.
The commission is set to launch a dedicated podcast to keep citizens updated with the latest developments, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility and transparency.
However, Moepya also acknowledged the double-edged sword of digital media, cautioning against the pitfalls of misinformation and disinformation.
"While enhanced connectivity improves our technical capabilities, it also exposes us to vulnerabilities that could damage public trust and institutional legitimacy."
Mamabolo's sentiments were echoed by Moepya, who stated that the latest innovative trends are key to ensuring a free and fair local government election, including a dedicated podcast that will allow citizens to keep up to date with the latest developments.
"Distinguished guests, while expanded connectivity expands our technical abilities, connectivity and technology also expose our vulnerabilities to misinformation and disinformation, as targeted incidents of misinformation and disinformation erode public trust and institutional legitimacy," he stated.
The IEC has also unveiled a new app for journalists, with the new Media App said to be designed to give accredited media practitioners direct, real-time access to official announcements.
According to the IEC, the app will include media statements, accreditation services, event information, podcasts, interview scheduling, and live updates, all in one place.
siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za