IEC warns democracy at risk as voter participation plummets ahead of 2026 elections

South Africa faces a growing crisis of voter apathy, as the Independent Electoral Commission reveals fewer than half of eligible voters intend to cast ballots in the next local government elections. In a briefing to Parliament’s Portfolio Committees, IEC deputy electoral officer Masego Sheburi said only 49% of respondents in recent survey research said they plan to vote, a startling figure that reflects a long-term downward trend in electoral engagement.

Turnout in local elections has been sliding for decades: from roughly 48% in 2000 to 46% in 2021. Sheburi warned the upcoming elections could see turnout drop below 40% unless concerted action is taken to restore public confidence and address the underlying factors behind voter withdrawal.

The IEC identified multiple causes behind the slump: growing mistrust in national and local government, dissatisfaction with political parties, and frustration over poor service delivery. Declining trust in politicians and institutions, Sheburi said, has eroded the perceived value of voting.

Compounding the problem are administrative and structural hurdles, plus a growing sense of disillusionment among younger and marginalised voters. Some respondents cited feelings of intimidation, logistical barriers, and a belief that voting yields little change, making non-participation a growing trend.

Amid the gloom, the IEC still sees a sliver of hope: about 68% of the population continue to view voting as a civic duty. Sheburi and several MPs called for a nationwide drive to revive voter education, clean up the voters’ roll, address service-delivery failures and rebuild trust. They argue a renewed campaign could galvanise the 49% “intenders” — or at least prevent turnout from falling further.

The warning from the IEC has stirred alarm across Parliament. Some legislators called for an urgent, cross-party effort to restore faith in democracy — arguing that a sliding turnout undermines legitimacy, weakens public accountability and risks deepening political instability.