electoral reformlatest news & developments
The next local government election is going to be held between 2 November 2026 and 30 January 2027. (Delwyn Verasamy/M&G)

Electoral Commission of South Africa sets out 2026/27 local election schedule

Chief electoral officer Sy Mamabolo urged Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa to announce the election date ahead of proclamation

  • Eyaaz
3 min read
An ANC volunteer carries a poster of Cyril Ramaphosa as she prepares to erect a party station at the Msholozi Informal Settlement near Brakpan, Johannesburg. (File photo by Delwyn Verasamy/MG)

Why South Africa needs electoral reform: A look at mixed-member proportional systems

The country desperately needs a system that makes politicians accountable to voters, not their political parties

  • Des Erasmus
4 min read
The Electoral Reform Consultation Panel has been tasked with making recommendations for reforms to the electoral system in South Africa. Photo: Delwyn Verasamy, M&G

Electoral reform should be seen as a priority to build trust between voters and politicians

Many politicians have put internal party battles and their own interests over the well-being of citizens, eroding the public’s trust in them and in democratic institutions. This needs to change

6 min read