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LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS 2026 | MPUMALANGA Premier Mandla Ndlovu urges residents to exercise their democratic right amid heightened election activity ERMELO – Mpumalanga is preparing for a crucial moment in its local government landscape as the 2026 Local Government Elections get underway, with the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) reporting significant special voting activity across the province. Special voting commenced on Monday, 2 November, and will continue until Tuesday, 3 November, ahead of the main voting day on Wednesday, 4 November. A total of 292 775 voters in Mpumalanga have been approved to cast special votes, placing the province among those with substantial numbers of voters requiring alternative voting arrangements. Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu has urged all eligible residents to participate in the elections, emphasising the importance of exercising their democratic rights. The special voting process accommodates registered voters who may be unable to reach their voting stations on election day due to physical infirmity, disability or other qualifying circumstances. The IEC has arranged for special votes to be conducted through home visits and at registered voting stations. Voters approved for station-based special voting are required to visit their registered voting stations between 08:00 and 17:00 on Monday or Tuesday. Municipal performance under scrutiny The elections come at...