BLOEMFONTEIN – The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) in the Free State has embarked on a process of realigning voting district boundaries ahead of the 2026 municipal elections. This followed the handover of newly determined ward boundaries by the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) on 10 December 2025.
The Commission announced on Wednesday 28 January that it launched a province-wide Voting District (VD) Delimitation Revision project in line with preparations for the upcoming 2026-’27 local government elections.
According to the IEC, the revised wards provide it with an opportunity to realign voting district boundaries. This aligns them with updated municipal and ward configurations. It also considers evolving settlement patterns across the province.
The purpose of the revision project is to ensure that all registered voters are assigned to voting districts that are:
- geographically coherent and accessible;
- aligned with current demographic realities; and
- supported by permanent, stable voting venues.
“Emphasis is placed on improving voter access, reducing reliance on temporary structures such as tents and strengthening the overall voting station network. The revision will be carried out through structured engagements with IEC officials at provincial, district, and local levels,” said Mmathabo Rasengane, provincial spokesperson for the IEC.
The Commission will consult with Municipal Party Liaison Committees (MPLCs) and other stakeholders to provide input on proposed adjustments. “The Commission calls on political parties and stakeholders to cooperate fully during consultations to support the successful implementation of the delimitation revision. The IEC assures voters and stakeholders that this delimitation process is administrative in nature, conducted in line with the Electoral Act and applicable regulations,” said Rasengane.
Rasengane said the initiative is designed to achieve the following objectives:
- ensure free, fair, and credible elections;
- strengthen electoral integrity; and
- improve voter convenience.
