South Africa’s race for local government power is officially taking shape, with more than 142 000 candidates entering the contest for just over 10 000 councillor seats.

The Electoral Commission has announced that 142 072 candidates were nominated before last Friday’s deadline to contest 10 526 seats in municipalities across the country during the November 4, 2026 Local Government Elections.

The figures were released during an IEC media briefing in Pretoria on Wednesday, outlining the outcome of the candidate nomination process.

Channel Africa’s Reporter Michael Mbewe filed this report.

South Africa&rsquo;s race for local government power is officially taking shape, with more than 142 000 candidates entering the contest for just over 10 000 councillor seats.
The Electoral Commission has announced that 142 072 candidates were nominated before last Friday&rsquo;s deadline to contest 10 526 seats in municipalities across the country during the November 4, 2026 Local Government Elections.
The figures were released during an IEC media briefing in Pretoria on Wednesday, outlining the outcome of the candidate nomination process.
Channel Africa&rsquo;s Reporter Michael Mbewe filed this report.

An English news and current affairs wrap with a fresh take on the day’s top stories, hosted by the seasoned journalist Tsepiso Makwetla.

An English news and current affairs wrap with a fresh take on the day&rsquo;s top stories, hosted by the seasoned journalist Tsepiso Makwetla.