As South Africans stand in snaking queues to vote today, citizens are eager to have their voices heard. Despite feeling anxious, uncertain, and sad about the political landscape, they remain hopeful for change.
Now, we’ve told you that this election belongs to the youth. So we spoke to four young(ish) South Africans, and they shared their thoughts on the election, the changes they desire, and the leadership qualities they believe are essential for effective governance.
Kagiso Nko, 31, from Midrand, emphasises the need for job opportunities and better pay. “We need the state to act as a custodian and provide safeguards…Leaving a lot of its responsibility to the free market economy is a slippery slope.” He fears the current political dispensation is too concerned with Western demands at the expense of its people.
South Africa’s voter turnout as a percentage of those who are eligible to vote trends behind other comparable countries. Isolate the youth vote from those figures, and the turnout is even worse. Just 56% of eligible voters aged 18-29 registered to vote in the 2019 national and provincial elections, according to the IEC. Of those who did register, just 46% turned out to actually cast their ballot. That’s way lower than the national average of 66%.
Gugu Ginindza, 30, from Pretoria, believes voting is crucial for change. “South Africa is struggling…change is needed, and it is inevitable.” He hopes for a government that prioritises citizens over politicians.
Keabetswe Maubane, 30, from Garankuwa, wants decisive action against corruption and a better future. “It means fixing and adding infrastructure, getting jobs for the youth, safety, equitable access to healthcare and education, and creating a more equal society.”
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Ntokozo Sabelo Zondi, 34, from Johannesburg, seeks a government that considers the needs of the poor and is in touch with international relations. “We need a little more aggressive stance in correcting the inequality in this country.” He suggests using social media to hold elected officials accountable.
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These four, just like all of us, are not just voicing their concerns; they are demanding change. South Africans deserve leadership with integrity, a government that functions effectively, and a state that prioritises its citizens. As they wait for their votes to be counted, they are not just hopeful; they are determined for a better future where all our voices are heard and acted upon to address our concerns.
And now? We wait.
