On 30 May 2025, Msukaligwa Local Municipality hosted a vital public meeting at the Civic Centre to address the upcoming ward delimitation process in preparation for the 2026 local government elections. The session brought together ward councillors, municipal officials, and concerned residents seeking clarity and engagement in this key electoral process.
Ward delimitation is essential in defining how voting districts are shaped to ensure fair and equitable representation. The process is conducted in partnership with the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB), which routinely reviews electoral boundaries in line with population changes and legal frameworks.
Currently, Msukaligwa has 73,279 registered voters. Based on national norms and the Municipal Structures Act guidelines, the municipality is expected to be divided into 38 wards, each represented by a councillor and linked to a voting station.
The MDB has established a minimum of 3,857 voters per ward and a maximum of 4,434 voters per ward, ensuring proportional representation. This standard aims to prevent disparities between ward sizes, which could otherwise lead to imbalances in service delivery and electoral fairness.
Municipal officials reassured that the delimitation process is not intended to divide communities, but to improve service efficiency and ensure each vote holds equal weight. Ward councillors played an active role during the meeting, voicing concerns about potential confusion and challenges the process may bring. They emphasised the need for transparent communication with residents to avoid disruption and dissatisfaction.
Residents were also given the opportunity to raise concerns and suggest changes to the draft ward maps presented during the meeting. The municipality reminded attendees that public submissions will be accepted before the final ward maps are approved. These drafts are accessible at municipal offices and online for community review.
The meeting marked a significant milestone in Msukaligwa’s electoral preparations. As ward delimitation is both time- and resource-intensive, the municipality reaffirmed its commitment to working with government partners to educate the public about the MDB's role.
The ultimate goal, officials stated, is to ensure a more equitable and representative local government structure that reflects the needs of all residents.