Elections 2026: Ensure you don’t break THESE rules on voting day

On 4 November 2026, South Africans nationwide will be heading to the polls for the 2026 Local Government Elections.

While it’s a fairly straightforward process, voting comes with its own set of shenanigans. Such offences constitute electoral fraud, which carries severe repercussions.

ELECTIONS AND FRAUD: AVOID THESE OFFENCES

On voting day, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) strongly advises you to avoid committing the following offences:

• Do not vote in an election where you are not allowed to vote. Take note that all South African citizens aged 18 and over are eligible to vote.
• Do not try to vote at a voting station where you are not registered to vote. It’s up to you to check your registration status to find out where you’re registered.
• Do not try to vote more than once in an election. Multiple-voting is not an option; your thumbnail will be marked with indelible ink to prevent double voting.
• Do not pretend to be one of the following: an official of the Electoral Commission; representative of a registered political party; a candidate in an election; an accredited (qualified) observer; an accredited (qualified) voter education official.
• Do not prevent someone from speaking to other voters; and
• Do not interfere with a voter’s right to secrecy when he or she is voting, hence the regulation about no photos or selfies of marked ballots.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU COMMIT ELECTORAL FRAUD?

If you are found to have committed electoral fraud by carrying out one or more of the listed offences, you may be subjected to a fine or face a prison sentence of up to ten years.

If you suspect that electoral fraud has taken place – whether it’s committed by other voters, a political party or candidate – you are urged to report the incident to the IEC by contacting 0800 11 8000.

The Local Government Elections are only a couple of days away. Voting is meant to be a seamless, safe and fair process for all. By adhering to the proper protocols, we can ensure an orderly voting environment.