IEC Delays Announcement of 2026 Local Government Election Results to Sunday

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has postponed the announcement of the 2026 local government election results to Sunday. By Saturday afternoon, 99% of national votes had been counted. The IEC received 197 objections by 3 pm on Saturday, with 54 dismissed, eight withdrawn, and two upheld. IEC chairperson Mosotho Moepya provided an update on the completion of results processing and objections at a media briefing in Midrand.

At the briefing, Moepya revealed that the ANC was leading nationally with 30.89% of the vote, followed by the DA with 24.58%, the MK Party with 9.63%, the EFF with 6.25%, and the IFP with 5.68%. The results remain provisional until all objections are determined, and decisions could affect the final allocation of seats. Moepya warned that provisional results may change due to objection determinations, potentially altering seat allocations.

The IEC upheld two objections, resulting in one edit window order and five ward recounts. Recounts will take place in specific wards in City of Tshwane, Mangaung Metro, Thaba Chweu Local Municipality, and Breede Valley Local Municipality. The Commission aims to finalize objections before announcing the election results. Moepya emphasized that the Commission will spare no effort to complete the objections process.

Results processing has been finalized in several provinces, including Free State, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Limpopo. However, processing remains outstanding in some municipalities in Gauteng, North West, and KwaZulu-Natal. Moepya expected results processing in these municipalities to be completed by Saturday evening.

The IEC received objections from political parties and independent candidates until 5 pm on Friday. The Commission is now focused on determining objections that could materially impact the election outcome. Moepya urged parties, candidates, citizens, and the media to bear with the Commission as it completes the remaining processes.

The announcement of the 2026 Local Government Elections results is scheduled for 6 pm on Sunday. The IEC's delay is attributed to the need to complete the objections process and ensure the accuracy of the results. The Commission's efforts aim to ensure a transparent and fair election outcome.

The IEC's decision to delay the results announcement demonstrates its commitment to thoroughness and accuracy. By completing the objections process, the Commission can ensure that the final results reflect the will of the voters. The IEC's announcement on Sunday will provide clarity on the outcome of the 2026 local government elections.

Key points

• The IEC received 197 objections, with two upheld and five ward recounts ordered.
• Results processing has been finalized in several provinces, but remains outstanding in some municipalities.
• The announcement of the 2026 Local Government Elections results is scheduled for 6 pm on Sunday.