The ANC has reaffirmed its “full confidence” in the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and the “overarching integrity” of South Africa’s electoral process ahead of the upcoming local government elections scheduled for November 4.

ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu announced that the party has successfully lodged the overwhelming majority of its candidate list within the official nomination deadline, which closed on Friday.

However, on the final day of submission, the IEC’s candidate-capture system experienced technical issues that impacted several contesting political parties.

As a result, a small number of the ANC's entries are currently being finalised in coordination with the Commission.

“This is a technical and administrative matter, and it is being handled through the Commission's established processes,” Bhengu highlighted, adding that the party is confident these outstanding entries will be resolved.

The ANC commended the IEC for its “constructive engagement” with all affected political parties.

Bhengu stated that the ANC will refrain from conducting further commentary on the matter while the Commission finalises its work.

The party intends to provide a comprehensive update once the administrative process is officially concluded.

With the candidate submission phase winding down, Bhengu emphasised that the party's core focus remains firmly on its campaign and grassroots mobilisation.

“Our focus, and the focus of our volunteers in every ward, remains where it belongs: on the people, and on building better communities together on November 4," she said.