South Africans turned out in large numbers to vote, and government says thank you
Deputy Government Spokesperson William Baloyi thanked voters, the IEC, law enforcement and employers, and sent condolences to families who lost loved ones during the electioneering period.
Government has thanked South Africans, especially registered voters, for turning out in large numbers to exercise their democratic right in the 2026 Local Government Elections.
In a statement issued on Wednesday night, Deputy Government Spokesperson William Baloyi said government celebrated the participation of millions of South Africans while conveying its deepest condolences to families who lost loved ones during the electioneering period.
“We also wish those affected strength and comfort during this difficult time,” Baloyi said.
The statement was issued as National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola said on Wednesday that police are dealing with serious crimes, including murders reported in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. SAnews also reported that police are investigating 14 election-related cases.
South Africans went to the polls on Wednesday to elect representatives to municipal councils, a vote that allows citizens to influence local governance and hold elected representatives accountable for service delivery and for improving quality of life in communities.
Government commended the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa for its continued efforts to ensure a free, fair and credible election.
“Government reaffirms its confidence in the IEC and recognises its important role in administering the country’s electoral processes and safeguarding democracy,” Baloyi said.
He also thanked law enforcement agencies for maintaining peace, stability and public order throughout the election period, and thanked employers who released employees to vote. Government acknowledged individuals and organisations that assisted voters while they waited in queues to cast their ballots.
“These gestures of goodwill reflect the spirit of Ubuntu,” Baloyi said.
Government called on South Africans to continue upholding unity and social cohesion, and said democracy does not end at the ballot box.
“It requires continued citizen participation, accountability and constructive engagement to ensure that local government delivers on its mandate,” he said.
Government reiterated its commitment to working with all sectors of society to strengthen local governance, advance inclusive development and build safe, sustainable and resilient communities.
This report is drawn from the SAnews (South African Government News Agency) account of the government statement, which summarises the statement rather than reproducing it in full. The original is at https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/government-thanks-south-africans-participating-elections.
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