Visually impaired woman grateful for special voting arrangements

A 47-year-old visually impaired woman from Luthuli Park in Polokwane, Limpopo, says she is grateful for the opportunity to cast her ballot during special voting for the 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE).

Shirley Kekana says the Electoral Commission’s (IEC) special voting arrangements have made it easier for people living with disabilities to exercise their democratic right without having to endure long queues at voting stations.

An inclusive democracy ensures that people with disabilities can participate in elections.

For voters who are unable to visit a voting station on Election Day due to a physical condition or disability, you can apply for Special Voter opening on 21 September 2026.

#WozaLGE2026 https://t.co/lj4ftKTWVZ

— IEC South Africa (@IECSouthAfrica) September 17, 2026

Limpopo has registered about 341 000 special voters, including 109 000 home visits.

Kekana says special voting has made the process easier and more comfortable for her as a visually impaired voter.

“I am happy about the special votes because, to me, I won’t wait long in the queue. It shows that our government does recognise us and wants to treat us in a good way. I am happy that I am doing special voting here at home rather than at school or somewhere else because, at school, I am not comfortable. I feel like other people are watching.”

VIDEO | Special votes under way in Limpopo:

Reported by Nsuku Shiluvana