South African elections: what to watch and how to vote
Heading to the polls or following results from home? This guide gives you the essentials: which parties matter, the top issues shaping votes, what to bring to the voting station, and how to track results reliably. No jargon — just clear tips you can use right now.
Who’s in the race and why it matters
Three parties dominate national headlines: the African National Congress (ANC), the Democratic Alliance (DA), and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). Each has a different approach to the economy, service delivery, and job creation. Local and smaller parties can still matter a lot at municipal level — coalitions after the vote can affect who runs your local council or province.
Why care? Election outcomes shape everyday services: electricity, water, policing and schools. For example, fights over how to fix Eskom and end loadshedding are central to voter decisions. When parties promise changes to power supply, voters want clear plans, not slogans.
What voters should do — practical tips
Before election day: check you are on the voter roll via the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) website or local offices. Know your voting station and opening hours. Bring a valid ID — the safest option is the official ID card. Plan your trip so you don’t wait during peak hours: early morning and late afternoon are usually busier.
At the voting station: follow instructions from officials, mark your ballot clearly in the provided booth, and fold it as instructed. If you make a mistake, ask for a replacement — officials are there to help. Keep a record of the party or candidate you voted for if you want to follow up later, but don’t photograph your completed ballot (that’s illegal in many places).
How to follow results and avoid misinformation
Trust official sources first: the IEC posts results and updates. Use reputable news outlets for live coverage and verified analysis. Social media moves fast but can spread false counts; wait for official confirmation before sharing "final" numbers. If a result looks odd, check multiple trusted sources.
What to expect after the vote
Expect talks about coalitions if no party wins a clear majority. That can mean delays in forming local or national governments and short-term uncertainty about policies. Keep an eye on statements from party leaders and local councils to understand who’s likely to govern and what they plan to prioritize.
Want to get more involved?
Volunteer at a local ward, attend public meetings once leaders are elected, or follow council minutes online. Change often starts at local level — showing up regularly matters more than a one-time headline.
Need quick links? Check the IEC website for registration and results, follow trusted national news for analysis, and verify social posts before you share them.
