First 2026 local election results start arriving in Midrand

Political parties are keeping a close eye on the first results of the 2026 Local Government Elections. According to SAnews, preliminary figures began coming in on Thursday morning, the day after South Africans went to the polls.

Busy scene at the Midrand results centre

The national Results Operations Centre run by the electoral commission, known as the IEC, is in Midrand. SAnews described it as abuzz with activity. Party representatives have gathered there to follow the early numbers as they are released.

Voting took place on Wednesday. Each party is hoping to win as many municipalities as it can, which is why the first trickle of results is being watched so closely.

The numbers behind the vote

The IEC registered about 29.2 million voters for these elections. Voting took place at 23,696 voting stations around the country. Special voting was held over the two days before polling day, Monday and Tuesday.

The Commission is due to brief the media at 10am on Thursday, where more information about the count is expected to be shared.

What this means for you

The figures arriving now are preliminary. They are early indications rather than final outcomes, so it is wise to be careful with any claims about who has won a particular municipality until the IEC confirms results. SAnews did not say when the final results are expected.

Local government elections decide which parties run municipalities. If you voted, the results for your area will show who is likely to lead your local council. The IEC briefing at 10am is the next point at which officials are expected to give an official update.

This story is based on reporting by SAnews.