Elections in South Africa take place on national, provincial, and local levels. South Africa is a multi-party democracy with the African National Congress in power with a significant majority since 1994. A system of proportional representation, incorporating party lists, is in place which makes it possible for small parties to achieve representation in parliament.

The parliament has two chambers, and elects the president. The National Assembly has 400 members, elected for a five year term. The National Council of Provinces has 90 members, elected for a five year term by the provincial parliaments. The National Assembly and Provincial Councils are elected when General Elections are held.

Members to the local governing councils in the municipalities and mayors are elected in municipal elections.