As South Africa prepares for the 2026 local government elections, key questions surround declining voter turnout, rising political fragmentation, and the growing dominance of coalition governance. With major battleground municipalities at stake and smaller parties positioned as kingmakers, the upcoming vote could fundamentally reshape the country’s local political landscape.
We look at 10 big questions that will define the 4 November elections.
1. How many voters might show up on polling day?
Data from the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) shows that the number of voters who turn up on polling day has steadily declined over the years from a high of 89.3% in 1999 to an all-time…
Max du Preez: A prominent journalist and author known for his work on political
issues and social justice.

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Fun South African Travel tip: You can visit the hominid fossil displays and learn more about the beginnings of our planet at the Maropeng Visitors Centre and Sterkfontein Caves.
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