The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has registered 34 new political parties since the 2024 general elections, pushing the total number of officially registered parties to a record 472.
Despite this surge, only 18 political parties currently hold seats in Parliament, highlighting the gulf between party registration and electoral success.
IEC Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said at a Pretoria briefing on Tuesday that the rise reflects “increasing political engagement” in the country.
He stressed, however, that the commission must safeguard electoral stability, transparency, and accuracy as more groups enter the political field.
Breakdown of registrations
- 287 parties registered at the national level
- 185 registered to operate at the provincial, district, or metropolitan level
- 13 new parties registered between July 2025 and today
Mamabolo said the numbers show “a broadening political arena that demands vigilance and innovation to ensure fair and functional elections.”
Preparations for the 2026 local elections
The IEC is already preparing for the 2026 local government elections, expected between 2 November 2026 and 31 January 2027.
“The authority to set a date and call an election lies with the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs following consultation with the Commission.
“Consultations between the Minister and the Commission have commenced, but are yet to be concluded,” he said.
To support new entrants, the commission will hold information sessions from November 2025 for registered but unrepresented parties and independent candidates.
IEC warns against scams
Mamabolo also cautioned the public against fake job adverts and fraudulent pages posing as the IEC.
“These scams are designed to mislead people into clicking deceptive links and sharing personal information,” he warned.
Do you think the growing number of registered political parties strengthens South Africa’s democracy, or does it risk fragmenting the political landscape?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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