IEC opens applications for Special Votes for Local Government Elections
The Commission noted that application forms must be hand-delivered, although another person may submit the form on the applicant's behalf.
The Electoral Commission (IEC) has opened applications for special votes for the 2026 Local Government Elections, giving eligible voters until 12 October 2026 at 17:00 to apply.
The IEC said special votes are intended to ensure that people who would otherwise be unable to vote on election day, 4 November 2026, are still able to participate in the democratic process.
“Special votes are meant to ensure access to the vote by persons who would otherwise not be able to participate in elections on 4 November 2026,” the Electoral Commission said.
According to the IEC, there are two categories of special votes. The first is for voters who are unable to travel to a voting station because of a physical condition. If approved, election officials will visit them at their place of confinement within the voting district where they are registered. The second category is for voters who can vote in person but will not be able to do so on election day. If approved, they will cast their ballots at their registered voting station during the two days before the election.
The Electoral Commission also encouraged people who expect to be away from their voting districts on election day, including those working in essential services and members of the media, to apply for a special vote.
“The Electoral Commission advises voters who may be away from their voting districts on 4 November 2026, including those working in essential services and the media, that they qualify to apply for a special vote,” the IEC said.
Eligible voters can apply online through the IEC website, by sending their identity number via SMS to 32249 for voting station special votes, or by submitting a completed application form at their local IEC office.
The Commission noted that application forms must be hand-delivered, although another person may submit the form on the applicant’s behalf.
The IEC reminded voters that approved special votes must be cast at the voting station where they are registered, while approved home visits will take place at the voter’s registered address within their voting district.
