Political Parties sign Electoral Code of Conduct and Disinformation Pledge in Kimberley

Keolebogile Gouws

Fifty-four political parties met at Flamingo Casino in Kimberley, on Tuesday, 29 September
2026 to sign the Electoral Code of Conduct and Disinformation Pledge for the local government elections to be held on 4 November 2026.

This Code of Conduct is intended to promote “conditions that are suitable to free and fair
elections.” It is to foster an atmosphere of respect, freedom to campaign and public discussion or ‘how to play the game’.

For the forthcoming election, Northern Cape will have 735 voting stations, with 4 347 candidates, an increase of 1 393 from the 2021 Local Government Elections. 42% of the candidates are women, with the youngest candidate being 18 years old, and the oldest is 82 years.

Judge Lawrence Lever from Northern Cape High Court outlined the principles and responsibilities expected of those involved in the electoral process.

Representatives from the ten political parties including the new kid on the block, Afrika Mayibuye Movement signed the code, with others making brief remarks as to why voters should vote for them.

Afrika Mayibuye Movement Northern Cape Secretary Daniel Tato said the party has been in existence for about a year and few months. “It’s a historic because this will be our first time contesting local government elections. We are contesting 171 wards in the Northern Cape”, he indicated.

“For us this is a significant milestone as we will be competing with the big parties, forums and independent candidates”, expressed Tota.

Northern Cape SAPS Deputy Provincial Major General Luntu Ngubelanga said the security cluster has a fundamental responsibility to maintain a secure environment in which the elections can take place peacefully and credibly.

He said SAPS and other law enforcement agencies must make sure that voters, candidates, political parties, election officials, observers and the public can take part in the elections without fear, intimidation or violence. “Our responsibility is clear. It is to protect the election process without fear or favour,” Ngubelanga said.

Northern Cape Provincial Electoral Officer Elkin Topkin said the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) aims to deliver not only another successful local government election but also an improved voting experience for voters.
Provincial Electoral Officer, Lawrence Topkin assured the public of the IEC’s readiness.

IEC has developed its capacity of staff and infrastructure in the Northern Cape; the province is well prepared to deliver optimal service for the upcoming local government elections. He highlighted several statistics relating to the 2026 election figures for the Northern Cape.

To reduce the long queues and time spent at the voting station counting ballot papers, they have increase the amount of service points at the voting stations.

He said larger voting stations would have 2 service points and some voting stations might have up to 6 service points. Two hundred and sixty four 264 ballot papers will be printed.