Celebrated South African actor, Tumisho Masha is facing imminent police action after allegedly photographing his marked ballot paper inside a voting booth during today’s Local Government Elections.

The incident, which took place during the nationwide local elections on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, has ignited a storm on social media and triggered a rapid response from national safety authorities.

According to the National Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster, Masha allegedly used his mobile phone to capture a photograph of his completed ballot paper, compromising the strict secrecy of his vote.

The JCPS released an official statement confirming the breach:

“An actor, Tumisho Masha (@TumishoMasha), has contravened the Electoral Act 73 of 1998. The matter will be further handled by the Gauteng SAPS. You are reminded that it is a criminal offence to photograph a marked ballot paper and/or share it.”

Under the Electoral Act 73 of 1998, voters are strictly prohibited from taking photos or recording videos of their marked ballots inside the voting booth.

The law is strictly enforced to protect the absolute integrity and privacy of the democratic process, and violating it carries a penalty of formal prosecution, fines, or a criminal record.

Gauteng Provincial Police are actively handling the matter, with law enforcement sources indicating that formal criminal proceedings are being initiated.

The incident occurred shortly after Masha had posted on social media encouraging South Africans to use their votes to demand political change.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) have repeatedly warned the public throughout Election Day to keep mobile devices firmly away from the voting booths to avoid facing immediate arrest and criminal charges.

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