The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) welcomes the long-awaited announcement of the date of the 2026 Local Government Elections by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The confirmation that elections will take place on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, brings much-needed certainty, putting to rest speculation and enabling all stakeholders to plan with clarity. The time for uncertainty, political theatre and gamesmanship has now ended.
While the election date falls within the fourth school term, a period typically reserved for final examinations, the ACDP is confident that the Department of Basic Education will work with the Electoral Commission (IEC) to ensure that learners eligible to vote are able to exercise their constitutional right. We are also mindful that many schools serve as voting stations, and trust that all logistical considerations will be effectively managed in the best interests of voters.
This election will be a defining moment for South Africa’s democracy. Approximately 28 million registered voters will have the opportunity to elect the local governments they deserve. Each voter is called upon to reflect critically on the performance of incumbent parties whose terms end on 2 November 2026, and to carefully assess the policies and track records of those contesting the elections. Voters must resist being swayed by noise, populism and empty rhetoric, and instead make informed, performance-based decisions.
The ACDP notes with concern that a Human Sciences Research Council survey indicates that only around 17% of voters are satisfied with democracy, while 68% express dissatisfaction. This growing disillusionment underscores the urgent need for political parties to act responsibly. Dishonesty, sloganeering and “win-at-all-costs” strategies will only deepen public distrust. Our collective responsibility is to reverse this alarming trend and restore confidence in democratic processes.
The ACDP commits itself to a clean, positive and fair campaign, grounded in the constitutional values of the right to vote, freedom of association and freedom of expression. We call on all political parties to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and avoid negative campaigning, personal attacks and divisive tactics that undermine democracy.
We further call on the IEC to ensure that all necessary preparations are made to deliver elections that are free, fair and credible, without any form of corruption or administrative failure. We look forward to the release of the official election timetable, which will assist all parties in aligning their internal processes accordingly.
The ACDP continues to actively encourage voter registration and participation, particularly among the youth. Through initiatives such as the ACDP Youth Foundation’s voter registration programme, we aim to empower young South Africans to take up their democratic responsibility and make their voices heard.
To the media and public commentators, we urge fairness, balance and objectivity. Allow voters to assess parties on their merits rather than shaping narratives through bias or groupthink. The role of the media should be to inform and interrogate, not to influence unduly.
To the citizens of South Africa, this election represents a crucial opportunity to shape the future of your communities. Your vote is sacrosanct – it must not be traded for mediocrity. It must be used to elect competent, ethical and servant-minded councillors who will prioritise service delivery and the well-being of all.
For those who are disillusioned by past failures, remember that of the multiple political choices available; the ACDP stands as a viable alternative, committed to principled leadership and community-centred governance. We encourage voters to choose wisely – for themselves, their families, and future generations. Choose and vote ACDP.
