IEC orders recounts in five wards after election objections
The Electoral Commission of South Africa is reviewing 197 objections, upholding two and dismissing 54 as it finalises local election results.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has ordered recounts in five wards across the City of Tshwane and Mangaung following objections to the 2026 local government elections. The commission received 197 objections by 3 pm on Saturday, dismissing 54 and upholding two. Provisional results could change before the final declaration on Sunday.
IEC chairperson Mosotho Moepya stated that 8 objections were withdrawn and the commission was still considering the remaining ones. He reminded contestants that results remain provisional until all objections are determined. If an objection has merit, the IEC may decide votes should not count, or allocated seats should be adjusted before official declaration.
The recount process involves reprinting result slips and allowing political parties to send agents to observe. Moepya explained that the commission would inform affected parties and ensure their participation. He also cautioned against drawing conclusions from incomplete statistics like voter turnout and spoiled ballots, as these affect seat allocation.
Why it mattersSouth African voters in specific wards of Tshwane and Mangaung may see changes to their local election results.