SALGA Urges Youth to Register for 2026 Local Elections

Recent Public Opinion Research conducted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has revealed troubling trends ahead of the local elections.

The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has called on young people across the country to register to vote ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections, stressing that their participation is essential in shaping the future of municipalities and local communities. The appeal comes during Youth Month and ahead of the national voter registration weekend scheduled for 20 and 21 June 2026. SALGA is encouraging eligible citizens to use the registration period to either register for the first time or update their voting details in the areas where they reside.

Through its Youth Commission, the association is intensifying efforts to engage younger voters at a time when concerns are growing about declining voter turnout and increasing disengagement from democratic processes.

Research Highlights Growing Voter Apathy Among Young People

Recent Public Opinion Research conducted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has revealed troubling trends ahead of the local elections. The study found that 62% of unregistered voters have no intention of registering, while only 38% indicated a willingness to do so. SALGA Youth Commission Chairperson Lucky Sele said the findings are particularly concerning among younger citizens. According to the research, more than 60% of unregistered adults between the ages of 18 and 34 do not intend to register to vote. This could result in millions of potential first-time and second-time voters being excluded from the electoral process. The findings have reinforced calls for stronger civic engagement initiatives aimed at reconnecting young people with democratic institutions and encouraging them to participate in decisions that directly affect their lives.

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has also identified youth participation as a key priority for the upcoming elections. Its 2026 election campaign, launched under the slogan "Get Up, Show Up, Vote", places significant emphasis on encouraging younger South Africans to become active participants in democracy.

Local Decisions Have Direct Impact on Communities

SALGA believes that effective local governance depends on meaningful participation from residents, particularly young people who make up a significant portion of the country's population. Sele said issues such as employment opportunities, service delivery, municipal accountability and community development are directly influenced by decisions taken at the local government level. He stressed that young people cannot afford to remain absent from processes that shape their future and the future of their communities.

As part of its Youth Month activities, the SALGA Youth Commission will implement a targeted mobilisation programme throughout June. The campaign will include public awareness initiatives, media engagements and youth dialogues designed to encourage voter registration and promote greater involvement in local democracy. The association hopes that increased participation by young voters will strengthen democratic institutions, improve representation and ensure that the voices of younger generations are reflected in municipal decision-making processes across South Africa.