UPDATE ON THE WARD CHANGE PROCESS AHEAD OF THE 2026 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS

As the country prepares for the 2026 Local Government Elections, the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of local governance. The ward delimitation process, which is central to ensuring fair and representative elections, is now entering a key phase of publishing the second draft of wards to enable members of the public to lodge objections during September 2025.

SECOND DRAFT WARDS COMING SOON: HAVE YOUR SAY >>>>

The MDB has completed its review of all submitted ward delimitation proposals. The second draft set of wards will soon be published for public objections. Once published in the provincial gazettes (expected in September 2025), the public will have only 14 days to submit objections. Be on the lookout for the gazettes and visit www.demarcation.org.za for updates and submission guidelines.

What About the Deferred Cases?

In the 2023/2024 municipal boundary re-determination process, 13 cases affecting 19 municipalities were deferred for further investigation.

After extensive research and stakeholder engagement, the MDB has resolved not to re-determine any municipal boundaries at this time.

This is in line with Circulars 1 and 2 of 2025. Affected municipalities are listed per province in (Figure 1)

What’s Next for These Municipalities?

Since no boundary changes will be made, the MDB will now proceed with ward delimitation for the affected municipalities. Here's what to expect: Public consultations will commence in September 2025.

Community input is critical; Members of the community will have an opportunity to suggest how their wards should be configured.

The second draft for these municipalities will be published in October 2025. Members of the community will have 14 days to submit objections.

Why Ward Changes Matter

Wards are delimited every five years ahead of the local government elections. By participating in the ward delimitation process, members of the community help shape responsive, inclusive and accountable local government.

Once the process is finalised, the final wards are handed over to the Electoral Commission (IEC) to prepare for the local government elections.

For updates, resources, and notices: visit: www.demarcation.org.za

Stay informed and make your voices heard!

- Zwakala Asakhe Amawadi!