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The importance of voting is in sharp focus as local government elections take place on Wednesday, when the responsibility shifts to South Africans who have registered to exercise their democratic right.
We all have a role to play in strengthening our democracy, so we should keep reminding each other how crucial it is that we turn out in large numbers at polling stations to cast our ballots.
By voting, we honour our past and reaffirm our democratic future. After 22 years of freedom, it is all too easy to forget that many paid the ultimate price fighting for our liberation and the right to vote. Hence, it is our duty to build on this proud legacy by ensuring that the local government elections are successful.
I am encouraged that many South Africans used the two registration weekends to register and update their details on the voters’ roll. In April, the Independent Electoral Commission stated that there were 26 296 601 registered voters, which is 77% of the eligible voting population. It is heartening that the youth and first-time voters made up a large proportion of new registrations.
These numbers are encouraging, but will mean nothing if South Africans do not exercise their right to vote on election day. True democracy demands the involvement of citizens.
We urge South Africans not to be complacent. Your vote is your power; it allows you to elect a representative to manage your interests and ensures that you have a direct say in what happens in your community.
Citizens who do not vote lose their right to influence decisions at local government level.
Our democracy also allows citizens to hold their elected leaders accountable. I therefore urge South Africans to remain vigilant and ensure that promises are kept. It is time for all of us to get involved in matters that affect our lives and the wellbeing of our communities.
Voting is one of the most visible ways for South Africans to demonstrate good citizenship and civil responsibility. Sadly, many established democracies suffer from voter apathy or disenchantment. Our young democracy cannot afford this. When you choose not to vote, you are indirectly voting against democracy, as you waive your right to make changes or influence the direction of government.
There are some people who see no sense in voting, saying it cannot bring about change. They are wrong. Our country was different before 1994, and the change we see today was brought about by voting. Since 1994, we have transformed an undemocratic, unrepresentative, oppressive state serving a minority into a nonracial, democratic state – answerable to, and representative of, all South Africans.
Government has consistently worked on improving the lives of all South Africans and advancing their socioeconomic rights – providing housing, water, education, social development and healthcare. Income levels are up, and millions of people now have access to safe drinking water and electricity.
There are also millions more who now have a place to call home.
These advances, and others since 1994, were made possible partly through citizens reaffirming our democracy by casting their vote.
In this election, like the others before, your vote will have a lasting effect on our efforts to improve the lives of South Africans by building an efficient and effective local government.
Every poll since 1994 has built on our democracy. This one will be no different.
Government is confident that the polls will be free and fair. The SA Police Service, supported by other law enforcement agencies and key role players from the safety and security structures, have been tasked with ensuring a safe election.
Safeguarding voters, voting stations and electoral commission officials is a prerequisite for a free and fair election.
Government is confident that we will build on our proud record of hosting credible elections. We will not allow individuals or groups to disrupt the polls – those who do, will face the full might of the law.
All that remains is for voters to make their mark for democracy on Wednesday.
Your vote is your voice. It ensures that local government is in your hands.
Van Rooyen is minister of cooperative governance and traditional affairs
