Pretoria:First-time voter Bokang Maleka joined others at Tsaroga Phoka Primary School in Soshanguve to participate in the 2026 Local Government Elections. Maleka, 19, expressed a mix of excitement and uncertainty about her voting decision and the potential for elected officials to fulfill their promises.

According to South African Government News Agency, Maleka, accompanied by her mother, was among the early voters at the school, where the Electoral Commission staff were preparing for the poll's opening at 7 a.m. Despite some initial delays due to network issues with Voter Management Devices, voters were encouraged to stay and mark their choices.

Thabo Maleka, another voter, shared his desire for change, having consistently voted for the opposition. Alongside him, Baloyi highlighted concerns over illegal migration, unemployment, and crime, emphasizing a need for a government that prioritizes serving the people and economic development.

Both Maleka and Baloyi called on young people to participate actively in the electoral process, highlighting the power of voting in shaping the country's future. As the day progressed, voters in metropolitan municipalities received two ballots, while those in local municipalities received three, reflecting the structure of the electoral process.

The Electoral Commission noted its preparedness for the elections, which are set to close at 9 p.m. tonight.