Electoral Commission satisfied with the conclusion of the first day of special voting
Earlier this afternoon the Commission briefed the nation about a generally smooth special voting process throughout the country. At the time of that briefing, we indicated that there were some voting stations which delayed opening in the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality, due to late distribution of ballot papers. We are pleased to announce that subsequently, all affected voting stations opened and remained operational.
The first day of Special Voting concluded at 17h00 today, Monday 2 November, and the Commission is satisfied that the day’s proceedings creates a solid basis for improved performance on day two of special votes and on election day. The Commission is grateful for the cooperation of voters, candidates and political parties throughout the day. We also appreciate the commitment of thousands of election officials who worked at voting stations and those who conducted home visits.
Final Day of Special Voting Tomorrow
The Commission calls upon all approved voters who have not yet cast their special votes to do so tomorrow, Tuesday, 3 November 2026. Voting stations will open at 08h00 and close at 17h00. This is the final opportunity for special voting after which voters may only be able to vote on 4 November 2026 at the same voting stations they are registered.
Our dedicated officials will continue conducting approved home visits tomorrow to facilitate Special Voting for eligible voters who could not be reached today. The Commission urges these voters to remain at the address as reflected on their approved home visit application to ensure that officials are able to locate them and facilitate the casting of their special votes.
Do’s and Don’ts at voting stations and during home visits
The Commission reminds voters to observe the Do’s and Don’ts at voting stations to safeguard the secrecy, integrity and orderly conduct of the voting process. Voters are reminded that making a photographic image of marked ballot papers is strictly prohibited.. Voters must mark their ballot papers in private, in the designated voting compartments, and follow the instructions of election officials throughout the process.
Voters are further urged to respect the rights of others, maintain order at voting stations and refrain from any conduct that may disrupt the voting process. Campaigning, canvassing, intimidating or attempting to influence voters inside voting stations is not permitted. The Commission calls on all voters to cooperate with election officials and observe the rules governing Special Voting.
The Commission further appeals to members of the public and political party supporters to refrain from interfering with electoral staff conducting home visits. Confronting the electoral staff during the course of duty makes it difficult for them to reach voters at approved addresses. Members of the public are also reminded that it is a criminal offense to intimidate electoral staff, to take unauthorized pictures of these officials and posting them on social media.
The Commission expresses its appreciation to election officials, political parties, independent candidates, accredited observers and other stakeholders who have cooperated with the Commission and its personnel.
Weather patterns
The Commission has received reports of rainy weather in some provinces, leading to challenges relating to access to some voting stations in King Sabata Dalinyebo District. Hot weather conditions also persist in some provinces. Therefore, voters are encouraged to monitor weather patterns in their areas and take precautionary measures to exercise their vote in safety.
Get Up. Show Up. Vote on 4 November 2026!
For media queries:
Please contact Kate Bapela
Cell: 082 600 6386
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