# Government has commended the 15.9 million South Africans who participated in the 2026 Local Government Elections, particularly young people who took part in the democratic process. Government deputy spokesperson William Baloyi has described the reported turnout as an important milestone in the country’s democratic development. While the Electoral Commission is still to provide the official voter turnout figures, Baloyi has welcomed reports of increased youth participation:
Government commends 15.9 million South Africans for participating in 2026 local government elections [SOUND]
ENG BaloyiONParticipating