Local government affects many of the things South Africans encounter every day: the water coming from our taps, refuse collection, roads and potholes, electricity infrastructure, municipal finances, housing and the development of our communities. Political parties will spend the months before the 2026 Local Government Elections telling voters what they plan to do. We think voters should have an opportunity to tell political parties what they want them to do.
Through this Free SA campaign, South Africans across the country can identify the five local government issues that matter most to them. The results will help build a citizen-driven picture of the priorities communities want political parties and future municipal leaders to address.
On 4 November 2026, South Africans will vote in the Local Government Elections and decide who will lead their municipalities for the next five years. But democracy is about more than where you place your cross on Election Day. It is also about making your priorities clear to those asking for your vote.
Free SA wants to hear from you
What are the issues that matter most to you, your family and your community?
Select the five issues you believe political parties should prioritise in your municipality. You can also tell us about an issue that isn’t on our list. Ahead of the election, Free SA will compile the responses and send the results to the leaders of South Africa’s political parties, without revealing any of your personal data, giving them a clear picture of what citizens want from the next generation of local government.
Free SA believes elected representatives should listen to citizens before they take office, not only after decisions have been made. We want political parties contesting the 2026 Local Government Elections to understand clearly what South Africans expect from their municipalities. By gathering responses from communities across the country, we aim to identify both national trends and local priorities and put those findings directly before political leaders.
Choose your five priorities and submit your response.
It takes only a few minutes, but every response helps us build a clearer picture of what South Africans expect from local government.
Then share the campaign with your family, friends and community.
The more South Africans who participate, the stronger the message becomes.
Before they ask for your vote, make sure they hear your voice.
Your contribution ensures that Free SA can continue to fight for your rights. From public awareness campaigns to legal battles, every rand helps us protect democracy and equality.Â
Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest campaigns, polls, and updates on our advocacy efforts, sent directly to your inbox.