By Charmaine Ndlela
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has unveiled the official logo and tagline for the 2026/27 Local Government Elections, marking the start of an intensified voter mobilisation campaign.
The launch, held at the Gallagher Convention Centre on Wednesday, introduced the slogan: “Get Up. Show Up. Vote.” — a direct call aimed at boosting participation, particularly among young people.
Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said the campaign identity is both symbolic and practical in reinforcing democratic participation.
“Our democratic system comes alive when people rise, participate and make their voices heard,” Mamabolo said.
He confirmed the unveiling signals the beginning of a more intensive phase of election readiness.
A national voter registration weekend has been scheduled for 20–21 June 2026, during which about 24,000 registration stations will operate nationwide.
Mamabolo stressed that access to registration will be universal, but reminded voters that ballots are tied to specific wards.
“It does not matter where you live; there will be a registration point in your community. However, voters can only vote at the station where they are registered,” he said.
The Commission is also recruiting and training around 70,000 registration staff, blending experienced supervisors with young people, including the unemployed and persons with disabilities, in line with employment equity objectives.
IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya said the new campaign identity reflects renewal while preserving institutional values.
“This logo represents inclusive civic activism, shared patriotism and national pride. While the symbol may change, our commitment to free and fair elections remains steadfast,” Moepya said.
He acknowledged declining public trust in institutions, citing research by the Human Sciences Research Council.
“Public trust cannot be taken for granted. The 2026 elections present an opportunity to rebuild confidence in our democratic processes,” he said.
To strengthen civic engagement and transparency, the IEC announced new initiatives, including the launch of a podcast platform on 8 April 2026 aimed at expanding access to electoral information.
It will also introduce “Beats for My Peeps,” an edutainment reality series set to air on SABC 1 in May 2026, designed to encourage youth voter registration and participation.
Moepya called on political parties, civil society and government institutions to collaborate in ensuring credible elections.
“The success of the electoral process depends on strong partnerships,” he said.
The IEC has urged eligible voters to verify and update their registration details, including residential addresses, to ensure they can vote at the correct station.
“When you stand up and vote, you do more than shape your future — you strengthen and sustain our democracy,” Mamabolo said.
The official national election campaign launch is scheduled for 27 May 2026.
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