SOUTH AFRICA — President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially declared Wednesday, 4 November 2026, the date of the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE), as a nationwide public holiday.
The announcement was issued by the Presidency late Tuesday, confirming that the designation was made in accordance with Section 2A of the Public Holidays Act of 1994. The move is intended to facilitate broader civic participation across the country.
In the official statement, the President encouraged all registered voters to utilize the public holiday to fulfill their democratic right and civic duty. The upcoming elections are positioned as a critical opportunity for citizens to elect local public representatives and directly influence municipal service delivery in their respective communities.
The Presidency also provided a critical clarification regarding voting logistics. Citizens are reminded that they may only cast their ballots at polling stations located within the specific wards where they are officially registered. The statement explicitly noted that voters cannot transfer their voting rights to alternative stations outside their designated wards, regardless of any personal travel plans on election day.
Furthermore, President Ramaphosa directed a call to employers across the country, urging them to make necessary operational provisions. This ensures that all employees are afforded the unimpeded opportunity to exercise their Constitutional right to vote on 4 November.
