The Electoral Commission (IEC) in the Western Cape says it is aware that some voting stations have not opened on time for Special Voting today.
“Despite the best efforts of the IEC and the printing company contracted to carry out the production of the ballots, there has been an unforeseen delay in the delivery of Special Vote ballots in some areas,” said Provincial Electoral Officer, Michael Hendrickse.
Hendrickse said 2 and 3 November 2026 have been set aside for Special Voting and the IEC will fulfil its obligation to make sure voters, who applied for Special Votes, will be able to do so over the two days.
Nationwide, the IEC said a total of 2 655 067 voters were approved for Special Votes, which cater for registered voters, who may be unable to reach voting stations due to physical infirmity or disability, as well as those who may not be available to vote at their registered voting stations on Election Day on Wednesday, 4 November 2026.
“It is our intention to honour our mandate and make sure every voter exercises their democratic right to cast their vote,” Hendrickse said.
At 08h00 this morning, the delay meant that 217 voting stations in the Cape Metro could not open on time.
Said Hendirckse: “This is a fluid situation, as these voting stations are opening as ballots are received. Citizens are assured that all security measures are in place for the transport and delivery of the special vote ballots.
“This only affects the Cape Metro and I want to apologise for the inconvenience to our voters. Reports confirm that voting stations in the outer regions of the [Western Cape] are operating smoothly.” – SAnews.gov.za
Source: Original report at SAnews.gov.za.
