Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the conclusion of the 2026 Local Government Elections, praising South Africans for their commitment to democracy.
The government has called on newly elected councillors to put communities first, uphold transparency and accountability, and prioritise service delivery following the conclusion of South Africa’s 2026 Local Government Elections.
Government Communications congratulated incoming councillors but stressed that their election comes with a responsibility to respond to the needs of residents and improve conditions in their municipalities.
The call follows the announcement of the election results by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), marking the conclusion of the local government polls.
Government said the elections should serve as a turning point in strengthening local government and improving the delivery of essential services.
Newly elected councillors urged to put communities first
Government has urged incoming councillors to demonstrate ethical leadership and ensure that communities benefit from effective and accountable local governance.
"The incoming cohort is urged to be transparent, accountable and responsive to the needs of the communities they serve," the government said.
The elections presented an opportunity to improve service delivery, strengthen community safety and build more inclusive municipalities.
"The elections are expected to be a catalyst towards improving service delivery and creating safer, more inclusive and prosperous communities, ensuring that no community is left behind."
The government also encouraged residents to work closely with their elected representatives to ensure that municipalities respond effectively to community needs.
Government welcomes IEC's declaration of free and fair elections
Government welcomed the IEC's declaration that the 2026 Local Government Elections were free and fair, describing the outcome as an important milestone for South Africa's democracy.
It commended the IEC, election officials, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other stakeholders for their role in ensuring the elections were conducted safely.
More than 540 political parties and nearly 137,000 candidates participated in the elections, reflecting the scale of political participation across the country.
Government also thanked South Africans who exercised their democratic right to vote.
President Cyril Ramaphosa also welcomed the country's democratic participation during his address at the IEC Results Operation Centre.
"At a time when democracy is under strain in many parts of the world, South Africans have once more demonstrated that ours is a strong and enduring democracy," Ramaphosa said.
Communities urged to hold hands with elected representatives
With the elections concluded, government has shifted its focus towards strengthening co-operation between communities and their newly elected municipal representatives.
It emphasised that effective local governance would require collaboration between residents, councillors and government structures.
"Government calls on all communities to work hand in hand with their newly elected representatives," the government said.
"By working together and building strong partnerships, we can build a capable, ethical local government that improves the lives of citizens."
Government said the conclusion of the elections marked an important step in South Africa's democratic journey, with attention now turning to improving service delivery and ensuring that local government meets the needs of the people it serves.