By Teboho Moloi
BLOEMFONTEIN – The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in the Free State has confirmed a reduction in municipal wards ahead of the high-stakes 2026 local government elections, as preparations gather pace for what analysts are calling a defining political contest.
While the commission says it is not yet ready to formally declare full operational readiness, it has entered an advanced phase of election planning — finalizing voting districts and stations across the province.
Provincial Electoral Officer Jabulani Tshabalala revealed that the Free State will have 311 wards in 2026, down from 319 in 2021, marking a significant shift in the province’s electoral landscape.
“In 2006 we had 309 wards, which increased to 319 in 2021. For the 2026 local government elections, we are going to have 311 wards — a clear reduction,” Tshabalala said.
The IEC has also introduced 43 new voting districts, while six have been scrapped, as part of a broader reconfiguration process aligned with changing population patterns.
Tshabalala attributed the ward reductions largely to migration trends and declining populations in certain areas, but stressed that the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) is best positioned to provide a full explanation.
The province is expected to operate 1,580 voting stations, with ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure. However, the IEC conceded that the use of temporary structures remains a challenge.
“We have tried by all means to do away with tents as voting stations, but only managed to eliminate 10,” Tshabalala said.
“For as long as informal settlements persist and proper facilities are unavailable, tents will remain part of the voting landscape.”
The commission has already completed the recruitment of election staff, who will be deployed at voting stations and registration points. Training is now underway to ensure compliance with electoral laws and IEC standards.
Meanwhile, the IEC confirmed that voter registration weekend is scheduled for 20–21 June, although the official election date is yet to be proclaimed by the president.
In a notable boundary development, Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality will retain its 51 wards, despite the incorporation of Soutpan following a recent MDB decision to shift the area from Masilonyane Local Municipality.
Political analysts warn that the upcoming elections could mark a turning point in South Africa’s democratic trajectory, with shifting demographics, redrawn boundaries and growing voter volatility set to reshape the balance of power at local level.
