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KwaZulu-Natal police ban marches on election day

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Ongoing: Elections Hot

Police identified 331 high-risk voting stations in the province ahead of the local government elections on 4 November. Acting Provincial Police Commissioner Phumelele Makoba said police are ready to secure the vote after recent violent protests in Durban.

Makoba spoke at a media briefing with Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia and National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola. He said no marches will be allowed on election day.

Recent violent demonstrations in Durban led police to apply for a court order against disruptive demonstrations. Two marches are planned between 2 and 4 November, Makoba said. He said they will take place on Monday and Tuesday, not on Wednesday.

Makoba said: "the law limits such rights of demonstration, particularly on election day". Police and other law enforcement agencies say they are ready to secure the elections.

Key facts

Who
Phumelele Makoba (KwaZulu-Natal Acting Provincial Police Commissioner); Firoz Cachalia (Acting Minister of Police); Fannie Masemola (National Police Commissioner)
What
Police in KwaZulu-Natal say no marches will be permitted on election day, after recent violent demonstrations in Durban prompted police to apply for a court order against disruptive demonstrations. Police say they are ready to secure the elections and have identified 331 high-risk voting stations.
When
30 October 2026
Where
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Status
Reported

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