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IEC orders recounts in five wards after election objections

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The Electoral Commission of South Africa had received 197 objections to the 2026 local government election results by 3pm on Saturday. It dismissed 54 and upheld two, and ordered an audit in one case.

IEC chairperson Mosotho Moepya said other objections were withdrawn. The commission found that the two upheld objections were material to the outcome. Areas named in the reports include the City of Tshwane, Emalahleni, Thabazimbi and Breede Valley.

Moepya said the results stay provisional until the commission determines all objections. He said the provisional result may change, and seats may change if the commission upholds an objection. He said the IEC would likely finish the remaining processes on Saturday evening.

After 99% of votes were counted, the ANC led nationally with 30.8%. The DA was second with 24%.

Key facts

Who
Mosotho Moepya (IEC chairperson); Electoral Commission of South Africa (election management body that ordered recounts and is processing objections); ANC (political party with the most votes nationally at 30.8% after 99% counted); DA (political party lying second nationally on 24%)
What
The IEC, chaired by Mosotho Moepya, said it had received 197 objections by 3pm on Saturday, with 54 dismissed and others withdrawn, and two upheld. Recounts were ordered for five wards, and results remain provisional until all objections are determined.
When
7 November 2026
Where
South Africa, City of Tshwane, Emalahleni
Status
Reported

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