South Africans approved for special votes are casting their ballots on Monday, 2 November, and Tuesday, 3 November 2026, ahead of the country’s local government elections on Wednesday, 4 November. The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has authorised 2,655,067 special vote applications, allowing eligible voters to participate early at designated voting stations or through approved home visits. The arrangement ensures that people unable to vote on the official election day can still exercise their democratic rights.
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South Africans heading to the polls on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, can take advantage of several Election Day freebies and discounts offered by restaurants, coffee shops and beauty businesses. Participating outlets are rewarding voters with complimentary coffee, doughnuts, ice cream and other promotions, generally in exchange for showing an inked thumb after voting. For Gauteng residents, the offers provide an opportunity to enjoy a treat after casting their ballots, although conditions, participating branches and availability may vary.
South Africans are being urged to separate fact from fiction as preparations continue for the 2026 Local Government Elections scheduled for 4 November. The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has warned that misinformation remains one of the biggest threats to voter participation, particularly among younger voters.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has launched a new digital media platform ahead of the 2026 local government elections as the country prepares for one of its biggest municipal voting periods in recent years. The new IEC Media App is aimed at accredited journalists and media practitioners covering the elections.