Very rarely do we as South Africans have such a momentous occasion where the entire nation stands up and gets together for change.
The weight of this year’s elections was felt more deeply and earnestly than in recent times, as was made apparent by nearly every person the News spoke to on 8 May.
Of all the polling stations that News journalist, Jaco Human visited, where queues were exceptionally long, no one had to wait more than an hour and a half to vote. For the most part, especially after about 9am at most voting stations, voters only waited minutes, some even walking right into the building when they got there. Krugersdorpers in general seemed very happy with the speed and service delivery at stations. Elderly voters were treated very kindly, taken out of the long queues by IEC staff and taken to the voting booths. Staff physically helped those who struggled to walk, holding on and taking every slow and careful step with them.
Though there were some problems during the morning, with scanners especially, most of the problems were sorted out by 8am.
Quinton Snyman, with his eye on the future of the youth of our country, said, “Today’s children are tomorrow’s future. We need to lead by example and invest in them. Voting today shows them that we believe in their future.”
Georgia Kirkwood said that it was “… a very enlightening experience”, with Roger Kirkwood adding that “… it was truly a privilege”.
Anthony Kennedy, one of the few young people who voted on the day, said, “I feel that it is everyone’s duty to vote today”, hoping that his vote would mean something and help to change the country for the better.
To view more photos of election day in Krugersdorp, click here.
