JOHANNESBURG - The Electoral Commission has started a nationwide drive,
to equip aspiring candidates ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
The workshops target unrepresented political parties, new community organisations, and independent candidates.
IEC Chief Electoral Sy Mamabolo says there are many parties that are on the party register but do not have representation.
READ| IEC gears up for 2026 local government election
This he says can not be taken this for granted.
"There are adverse requirements and that they know what needs to happen for a successful participation. For instance, what are the requirements? If you're an independent candidate, you need support of voters in your ward, how many those are?
"How much is the election deposit? By when are these requirements likely to be required? Can I submit physically at the local office of the IEC or can it only be done online? So those are the practical modalities that are necessary to be complied with for a successful candidature," he explained.