JOHANNESBURG, Thursday 5 November 2026 — The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is prioritising election-related criminal cases, with more than 25 matters already enrolled in court following South Africa’s 2026 local government elections.
National Director of Public Prosecutions Andy Mothibi said prosecutors were working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to accelerate investigations and prosecutions involving alleged electoral offences.
The announcement follows Wednesday’s municipal elections, during which police responded to incidents including alleged intimidation, assaults and disputes involving political party supporters.
More than 25 cases before courts
According to information reported by Jacaranda FM Newswatch on Thursday morning, more than 25 election-related cases have been enrolled in court, while approximately 14 other matters remain under investigation.
Mothibi said the NPA was adopting a coordinated approach with police to ensure that investigators received prosecutorial guidance while cases were being prepared.
The approach is intended to identify evidential gaps early and reduce delays when matters are referred for prosecution.
The offences under consideration include alleged assaults and intimidation involving Electoral Commission (IEC) officials.
Police investigate ballot-paper theft
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola said the elections had generally proceeded peacefully, although police were investigating incidents involving alleged intimidation, photographs of marked ballots and confrontations between political party supporters.
Police are also investigating the theft of ballot papers and sensitive election materials from a voting station in the Hillcrest area of KwaZulu-Natal.
According to police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda, election materials had reportedly been stored in a guardhouse at the premises before being discovered missing on Wednesday morning.
Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the theft, including why the materials were transported to the voting station the previous evening without a police escort.
The theft is being investigated separately from other election-related offences.
Prosecutions to proceed as counting continues
The NPA’s decision to prioritise election cases comes as the IEC continues counting and verifying votes across the country.
Although the prosecution authority has indicated that it intends to act swiftly, the registration of a criminal case or enrolment in court does not establish guilt.
Suspects remain entitled to the presumption of innocence and due process.
Further updates are expected as police complete investigations, prosecutors assess the evidence and individual matters proceed through the courts.
