Voters came out in their numbers to make their mark in the Local Government Elections at the Noordheuwel Country Club on Monday, November 1.
According to IEC presiding officer Ivy Pontsho, by 10:00 more than 450 people had voted and by noon a total of 643.
Asked why they made their mark, couple Lihle and Thobeka Dlamini said, “It is our democratic right to vote. We want to make a difference. Tax rates are too high and service delivery is poor.”
Liza van Blommenstein was clear in saying, “We need a new government, someone who cares about its people. We are now waiting in anticipation to see who wins.”
Chantel Harmse added, “My councillor is always there for me. I just feel that if you don’t vote, you can’t have a say. Every single vote counts. We must all take a stand.”
Wally and Daphne Roberts said, “You are stupid if you don’t vote. We have been voting for decades and haven’t missed one election. It is important to vote because we want a new government. How do want change if you don’t even vote?”
Also hoping to bring change and make a difference was Rentia and Anton de Beer, while Moira Boinamo said, “We want the right people in government. I voted for the party which I think puts the people and country first, not the party.”
“The government in power is pathetic. A change has to happen. If you don’t vote you simply cannot expect much of a difference,” said Johan van Rensburg.
Stefan and Antoinette Els added, “One has to vote if you want to bring change, it’s as simple as that”.
We need change. Politicians need to make sure they do what they are supposed to and what’s right for the public and country, not for personal gain,” said Ian Puntis.
First-time voter, the 31-year-old Leseke Reginah added, “I wasn’t interested in the past but the way things are going, I hope it will make a difference”.
Although many were in good spirits, some residents were unhappy such as couple Walter and Marinette Priter who were turned away.
It is really unfair. We registered online and even got an SMS that we should vote here. We couldn’t be helped.”
