APRIL 27, 1994, better known as Freedom Day, marked the start of a democratic South Africa with scores of people queuing for hours to cast their ballot that would eventually lead to the birth of the Rainbow Nation.

Three decades on, South Africans are once again being called to the polls to cast a decisive vote in the upcoming Local Government Elections. With the country and local government being ruled by coalition parties, due to there being no outright majority in some provinces, including KZN, your vote to could make a difference on the next leadership of the municipality.

Themba Tsinde, 65, who was among those who voted for the first time in 1994, knows the importance of voting all too well. “It was an exciting time, to be able to vote for the first time. To be voting for change,” said Tsinde.

“There was a buzz and it was a crucial time in SA, that vote meant everything. We were not just voting for ourselves, but for generations to come.”

Also Read: Freedom Day: Durbanites share their first voting experiences

Generations like his grandson, 18-year-old Njabulo Gumede, became eligible to vote this year, in time for the 2026 Local Government Elections. “I did register to vote, and I am looking forward to voting,” said Gumede.

“A lot of people my age do not see the importance in voting and are disheartened because of the rampant corruption in our country, but the truth being exposed in places like the Madlanga Commission gives me hope, and that voting for the right people can inspire our nation.”

With SA celebrating Freedom Day today (April 27) under the theme ‘Freedom and the Rule of Law: Thirty Years of Democratic Citizenship’, the country marks 30 years since the adoption of the Constitution in 1996, while focusing on the journey of democracy, the rule of law, and honouring the 1994 elections.

Tsinde encourages young and all eligible voters to make their later this year in the LGE. “Voting for people that you trust, putting them in power, makes a difference in how the country is run.”

Also Read: IEC launches online voter registration drive

He added, “I am looking forward to voting, and I am calling on those eligible to also do so when the time comes.”

His call was supported by Gumede who said, “As the youth, we can effect change with our vote and restore hope and direction of our country.

“These elections are important as the city’s leadership can affect things like housing and job creation. As the young people of eThekwini we deserve to have a bright future.”

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