The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has officially launched its campaign for the 2026 local government elections at the Gallagher Convention Centre, unveiling a comprehensive communications strategy aimed at raising awareness about polling processes ahead of the first voter registration window at the end of June.
The campaign, operating under the tagline “Get up, show up, vote,” places particular emphasis on engaging young voters. According to the IEC’s General Manager of Civic Education, the election is being positioned as “a young people’s election,” with targeted civic education programs designed to encourage registration and participation.
Addressing stakeholders including political parties, civil society, faith-based organizations, and youth groups, the General Manager acknowledged the challenging backdrop facing the electoral process. “We know that young people and voters in general are disengaged because they are just so demoralized by the state of democracy, of governance, of political parties,” they stated. “They feel disappointed that they’re not getting that democratic dividend.”
Research cited by the IEC reveals that approximately 79% of 18- and 19-year-old first-time voters have not yet registered. However, data indicates that once young people do register, they are highly likely to vote—and to continue voting throughout their lives. This statistic forms a central pillar of the Commission’s outreach strategy.
To reach younger demographics, the IEC announced the release of a new election commercial, alongside a podcast, television series, and broader TV campaign set to air on the SABC. These initiatives form part of a multistakeholder approach, with the General Manager emphasizing that “the mandate to educate and prepare South Africans belongs to all of us and not just the IEC.”
The Commission also addressed financial considerations, noting a funding gap exceeding 1.6 billion rand. While 1.1 billion rand from the National Treasury is scheduled for release in August, the IEC assured the public that it remains “ready, prepared, and budgeted” to deliver a successful election. “As all institutions in South Africa who are all utilizing the public purse, we have to be creative in how we execute our work,” the General Manager noted.
Voters are urged to verify or update their registration details during the upcoming registration weekend on June 20–21, when all voting stations nationwide will be open. The IEC also highlighted its 24/7 online platform at register to vote.elections.org.za, which has been upgraded for improved speed and usability.
The local government elections are scheduled for November 4, 2026. With civic education programs running continuously and new outreach tools rolling out, the IEC is calling on all eligible South Africans—particularly young people—to participate in shaping the country’s democratic future.