South Africans have once again proven they are ready to take this country forward. They went out in numbers to cast their votes. It is now up to the electorate to remind the parties they voted into power that now is the time to start delivering.

Those who did not make it must clearly start studying the tricks of those who will come out victoriously.
Just by observing I was able to learn a few political tricks and I am tempted to write a book about what works and what doesn’t. Clearly South Africans want more than just howling, they want to see action.

The biggest lesson for parties moving forward is that campaigning never stops after winning or losing an election, unless that particular party’s main objective for existence is to contest elections.

I want to applaud all the youth who went out to vote. That is a clear indication of growth in any democracy. The youth of 1976 and that of the Lowveld Massacre in 1986 clearly would have wished for them to have continued fighting for the emancipation of youth development, and voting is one of the most liberal ways to show such spirit.

I encourage young people to remain sober and focused throughout the term of the government they have just elected. It is important for them to be actively involved because it will keep political parties on their feet.
Democracy for me is about development economically, socially and in other areas. This requires persistence and focus.

I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate the party that will win. Local government elections are just around the corner and delivering on promises made in the manifesto for the general elections will lessen the burden for the forthcoming 2016 local government elections. After all, winning is about delivering.

You can share your views with us on twitter: _@mpnews or @hlengimganu