Youngsters share views on voting
With the national elections taking place on May 7, the EXPRESS took to the streets to get the views of young people, who will be voting for the first time.
The views were varied and all highlighted the different needs and expectations linked to their vote.
18-year-old Ms Nonkululeko Ngezi, from Malvern, said she wants improvements in the way the National Students Funds and Services (NSFAS) is run.
“Education is important, it must be prioritised. I want to vote for someone who will take that seriously,” said Ms Ngezi.
Her sentiments were shared by 19-year-old Mr Musa Nkosi from Malvern. “I will vote for change. It is hard enough being a student. One does not need to worry about other things such as funding and accommodation. I will vote to see that improve,” said Mr Nkosi.
It is a different case for 20-year-old Mr Solomon Saohatshe, who will be voting for improvements in service delivery. “Our communities need basic facilities. Things like libraries and community centres are vital in the development of any community. But then there are still communities without running water,” said Mr Saohatshe.
Mr Siphiwe Nkayi believes the municipalities are letting down the communities they are meant to serve. “As a 20-year-old living and working in Malvern, I find myself being ashamed to show people where I live. Simple things such as illegal dumping should not even be an issue. There are people tasked with making sure that such things do not occur,” said Mr Nkayi.
18-year-old Kensigton resident, Ms Nontobeko Bhengu, said she will vote so her voice will be heard about issues in general.
“As a student I am most affected by NSFAS. Education is important and the process of acquiring funding should be re-visited. Young people are the future and the people in charge must recognise that,” said Ms Bhengu.
18-years-old Mr Sihle Mazibuko, from Observatory, would like to see more being done for the elderly. “I want to vote for a person who cares for the elderly. There should be more places of care available as they are the most neglected in society,” said Mr Mazibuko.
19-year-old Mr Sizwe Gumbi said he wants to be able to hold the people in charge to account. “This voting came at a price and we must acknowledge that. By voting I will be giving the people an instruction and I will expect results from that. Our elders never had that privilege,” said Mr Gumbi.
18-year-old Ms Lihle Joyi from Kensington said, “I will vote only because it is a privilege and a right. Besides that, my vote will not really count in the bigger scheme of things.”
