The IEC says its Online Candidate Nomination System will close at its Friday afternoon deadline, warning parties and independent candidates they will not be allowed to submit lists afterwards.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has warned political parties and independent candidates that no late submissions or changes will be allowed once nominations for the 2026 Local Government Elections close.

The deadline for completing and submitting candidate nominations is 5pm on Friday, August 28.

The Commission said the deadline was fixed in the election timetable and urged contestants to complete their submissions ahead of time to ensure a smooth transition to the next stage of the electoral process.

“The Commission advises that the stipulated date and times are based on the election timetable, which cannot be changed nor be negotiated.