With local government elections fast approaching, the Krugersdorp News hit the streets to find out why local youth are voting and what motivates them to do so.

First-time voters demand accountability

Leshanya Naidoo (18) is hitting the voting station for the first time this year. She plans to cast her ballot because she wants to see change.

“I want a functional local government that works, and I believe my vote can make a change,” she said.

“A change I would like to see is resource allocation being done properly. At this point, it feels like all the money is being pocketed by the government and is not going where it is needed,” she said.

She added that she feels both scared and excited about casting her vote.

“Since it is my first time voting, it gets me out of my comfort zone, and I don’t know what changes will come after this election.”

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Mpho Mabuza (19) is also voting for the first time this year. He is doing so because he believes the country has not improved in recent years, and nobody in power is being held accountable.

He highlighted gender-based violence (GBV) as a key issue, noting that little action has followed since it was declared a disaster about six years ago, leaving young people facing empty promises, repeated speeches, and corruption. He explained it is extremely important for the youth to vote, as it directly affects their future.

Young voters speak on national direction

For the first time, Akhumuzi Duma (18) will be voting. He believes there are “no better parties than others”, as all parties have their own pros and cons. He also believes that to have an opinion, one must vote.

“Voting is important, as your vote holds so much power; however, sharing opinions and holding hands is shaping our country’s future,” he said.

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“We need the ANC out! In the beginning, what they were doing was good when they struggled for the country, but now, their priorities have shifted,” he added.

He joked that he is terrified to go vote for the first time, comparing it to an exam where he does not know what to expect.

“The youth should go and vote, as we have the opportunity to shape the country’s future. We are given the chance to make the world a better place, a place like we want it to be,” he expressed.

Keanu Heydenrych (23) is preparing to vote again, believing every ballot counts.

“I want to see a change in our country, and the first step to that change is a change in government.”

He believes that alone, a single vote does not make a difference; however, if the majority of young people vote, it definitely makes a difference.

He concluded that he is excited to go to the voting stations this year because it can be the beginning of a better South Africa, although he is not looking forward to standing in a long queue.