IEC Warns Upcoming Local Elections to Be Competitive, High‑Risk Amid Falling Trust

South Africa’s Independent Electoral Commission says the upcoming local government elections will be highly competitive. The commission warns of heightened risk due to declining public trust. Voter apathy is expected to challenge turnout levels. Election officials are preparing security measures to mitigate potential unrest. Political parties are intensifying campaign efforts across municipalities. Observers note that mistrust may influence election outcomes. The IEC urges citizens to engage responsibly in the voting process. Monitoring groups will track the elections for irregularities.