MBOMBELA - It's all systems go for the 2026 Local Government Elections, with 2.6 million South Africans expected to cast their special votes over the next two days.
Voting stations opened at 8am on Monday and will remain open until 5pm, with IEC officials also conducting home visits for voters unable to make their way to voting stations.
In Mpumalanga, more than 300,000 people have been approved for special votes, including approximately 47,000 who will be assisted at home.
READ: Elections 2026: Special voting gets underway on Monday
Among those making their mark in Mbombela is Melissa Depaiva, an unemployed young doctor who believes voting is an important way for citizens to shape the country's future and hold those in power accountable.
Depaiva is among thousands of qualified doctors who are struggling to find employment despite the country's need for healthcare professionals.
She says she is travelling to Johannesburg to attend a course to strengthen her CV and improve her chances of securing a job.
"Thousands and thousands of doctors out there are highly skilled, and we just don't have jobs. It's not like they don't need us. The country needs us," she said.
Depaiva believes young people must use their votes to demand accountability from those in leadership.
She says participating in the elections is not only a civic responsibility but also an opportunity for young South Africans to make their voices heard.
IEC officials reported a smooth start to special voting in Mbombela, with voting stations opening at 8am and officials on hand to assist voters.
Special voting will continue on Tuesday, ahead of the main voting day on Wednesday.
Read more: Local Government Elections 2026: Your guide to special voting