Pretoria: The Electoral Commission (IEC) has issued a reminder to eligible South African voters about the final opportunity for voting station-based registration set for the weekend of 1 and 2 August 2026. This marks the last chance for individuals to register, update their details, or verify address information to secure a spot on the voters' roll.
According to South African Government News Agency, the IEC's Chief Executive Officer Sy Mamabolo emphasized the importance of this final registration drive during a media briefing on the commission's preparations. The IEC has revised the number of voting districts to 23,699 to optimize voting station arrangements. For the final registration weekend, these stations will operate nationwide from 8 am to 5 pm on both days.
The IEC plans to deploy 48,212 trained electoral officials to assist voters. During the first voter registration weekend in June 2026, over 3 million registration transactions took place, indicating strong public engagement. The commission hopes for similar participation in the upcoming registration drive.
Since June, the IEC has recorded over 815,000 voter registration transactions, with 74% processed through the Online Voter Registration portal. Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape have seen the highest online registration activity. Women account for 61% of online users, and the 16-29 age group contributes significantly to the digital registration trend.
The Department of Home Affairs will adjust its operating hours to support voter registration activities, providing necessary services for obtaining identity documents. Following the final registration weekend, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is expected to announce the 2026 Local Government Elections date. The voters' roll will close at midnight on the proclamation day, halting new registrations and changes until post-elections.
Mamabolo explained that the Electoral Code of Conduct will be enforced to ensure free and fair elections, promoting tolerance, public debate, and political campaigning. The commission has activated the Online Candidate Nomination System for party and independent candidate nominations.
Eligible voters are encouraged not to delay their registration or updates, as last-minute surges could strain registration channels. - SAnews.gov.za
