Parliament, Monday, 3 August 2026 – The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Security and Justice, Ms Jane Mananiso, has welcomed the strong turnout during the two voter registration weekends, describing the increase in registrations as a positive indication of South Africa's maturing democracy. Despite the encouraging figures, she urged all eligible South Africans who have not yet registered, or who need to update their registration details, to do so before the voters' roll closes at midnight on 7 August 2026.
"The registration of 292 000 new voters during the second voter registration weekend can only strengthen South Africa's democratic dispensation. Participating in elections is the most practical expression of democracy and ensures that citizens have a direct say in shaping the future of our country," said Ms Mananiso.
While welcoming the overall participation during the registration weekends, Ms Mananiso noted that a significant number of eligible South Africans remain unregistered. She stressed that this reality requires practical interventions to ensure greater inclusion in the electoral process. She further welcomed the growing participation of young South Africans, describing it as an encouraging development that should be nurtured and sustained.
Ms Mananiso emphasised that voter participation is the lifeblood of any democracy. It not only strengthens the legitimacy of democratic institutions but also ensures that citizens remain active participants in determining how their country is governed.
The Chairperson further indicated that the committee will, in due course, schedule a briefing to assess the voter registration process, consider lessons learnt, identify challenges experienced during the registration weekends, and explore measures to increase voter registration beyond the current 29 million registered voters.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE ON SECURITY AND JUSTICE, MS JANE MANANISO.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the Committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Mava Lukani (Mr)
Parliamentary Communication Services
Cell: 081 503 1840
E-mail: mlukani@parliament.gov.za
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