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Independent ward candidates

Municipal elections allow for individuals to stand as candidates in wards.

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To contest a municipal election as an independent ward candidate, you don't need to register as a party does. You must be nominated and submit the required documents during the candidate nomination period, which is detailed in the election timetable published once an election date has been proclaimed.

Nomination

An Independent Ward Candidate can be nominated by a person (the Nominator) who:

  • ordinarily resides in the municipality in that ward; and
  • is registered on that municipal segment of the voters' roll.

Requirements

The following documents must be submitted:

  • A prescribed nomination form signed by the Nominator (published before municipal elections).
  • A prescribed acceptance of nomination form (published before municipal elections) signed by the candidate which includes an undertaking to be bound by the Code of Conduct and a declaration that the candidate is not disqualified from standing in the elections in terms of the Constitution or other applicable legislation together with a copy of the first page of their ID book.
  • A copy of the page of the candidate's ID book on which the candidate's photo, name and ID number appear (no need to be certified).
  • A precribed form (published before municipal elections) containing the names, surnames, ID Numbers and signatures of at least fifty (50) voters whose names appear on the voters' roll of any one of the voting districts of the ward the candidate is contesting.
  • The prescribed election deposit of R1,000.00 paid by means of a bank guaranteed cheque in favour of the Electoral Commission.
  • An A5 colour photo (head and shoulders) of the independent ward candidate as first choice, but black and white will not be rejected.

Please note: An Independent Ward Candidate must submit the required documents before the deadline stated in the election timetable.

For more information, please contact your nearest local IEC office.

Need more information?

How to contest municipal elections
How to contest national and provincial elections

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