South Africa’s Election Surge | Johannesburg News

South Africa’s local elections are heating up with over 136,000 candidates certified — a massive leap from 95,000 in 2021 — after 5,000 were disqualified for procedural issues. Voters will choose from more than 10,000 seats, with nearly 100,000 running for ward positions and 38,000 vying for proportional representation. Over 600 independents are also in the mix. Ballots in major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town will feature double columns due to the sheer number of parties competing. Men dominate the field at 62%, while women make up 38% — slightly better represented in proportional races. Most candidates are aged 40–49. The IEC is ramping up security with external audits and party testing, despite a legal challenge from the ANC. Special vote applications are coming soon for those unable to vote on election day. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.businessday.co.za/news/2026-09-16-anc-to-appeal-electoral-court-ruling-as-iec-finalises-candidate-lists/ More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/6409a43714b93cac Report issues to [email protected].