The functions of the Commission are set out in sections 90, 91, 92 and 219 of the Constitution and include the following–

• to prepare and update the voters roll;
• to oversee and supervise the registration of voters for purposes of national and local elections;
• to supervise and manage elections at primary, secondary or other levels;
• to ensure free, fair and democratic elections;
• to conduct or facilitate civic or voter education from time to time as may be necessary;
• to declare and publish election results under its authority;
• to promote conditions which are conducive to open, democratic and credible elections;
• to promote knowledge of democratic election processes;
• to promote public awareness of electoral matters by means such as civic education or appropriate information programmes;
• to adjourn, postpone, cancel or order fresh elections if scheduled elections are disrupted by natural disaster, civic violence or strife;
• to accredit election observers or monitors;
• to review and determine the number and boundaries of tinkhundla areas or polling divisions;
• to recommend the establishment of, or abolition of local government areas or the alteration of boundaries of local government areas;
• to produce periodic reports in respect of its work;
• to prepare an annual budget for due approval;
• to perform any other functions and exercise other powers in connection with elections and boundaries as may be prescribed.

The Commission shall, for the purposes of performing its functions−

• acquire the necessary staff, whether by secondment or appointment on contract or otherwise;
• establish and maintain the necessary facilities for collecting and disseminating information regarding electoral matters;
• co-operate with educational or other bodies or institutions with a view to the provision of instruction to or the training of persons in electoral and related matters; and
• generally, perform any act that is necessary for or conducive to the performance of its functions.