Leading political ladies of Ilembe speak their minds ahead of the national elections

Women are trending in politics and in light of the upcoming elections there is a strong call for everyone, especially women, to step up, cast their vote and play their part.

Here is what some of the leading political ladies of Ilembe have to say about why you need to make your mark on May 8.

Ann McDonnell

DA MPL and spokesperson for economic development, tourism, conservation and environmental affairs

Ann McDonnell first dipped her toe into politics about 25 years ago when she was “complaining” to members of the then Umhlali Beach Town Board about some town planning decisions.

“They challenged me to apply for the next vacancy, and the journey started. Local issues obviously were stressed, but it was fascinating to experience the transformation of South Africa to a democratic dispensation – the one man one vote system.

“Initially we were not political, but by 1994 councillors were representative of political parties, or independents. My choice was to join the DA because of its liberal ethos,” said McDonnell whose daughter Tammy Colley is currently the DA councillor for ward six.

McDonnell was promoted to member of provincial legislature in 2014.

“South Africa’s problems are well known, but it is better than before 1994 under the dreadful Apartheid regime. Economic freedom is now justifiably the cry, and this makes the national and provincial elections on May 8 so very important.

“Rates of unemployment and poverty have risen while gross corruption has robbed our economy of much needed resources to attract investment and make a conducive environment for economic growth and the dignity of employment for so many South Africans. This is the importance of these elections – making the choice between a capable or failed state.”

She said she could not understand why people decide not to vote.

“Maybe the confusion of so many messages, maybe it is easier to be a social media opinionista, maybe they have not experienced not having the vote, so do not value it. The only reason I have actually heard is that they have voted before and it made no difference. On asking further, they said they had voted for the same party and got the same outcome.

“The violent service delivery protests need to be addressed at the polls, a vote not a stone or match!”

Zethu Makhanya

EFF Ilembe regional deputy secretary

The young and happening Makhanya said she was never interested in politics until the EFF started.

“I was a student at Howard College when I first heard about them and thought – wow! I love what they stand for and that education is one of their main foundation pillars,” said Makhanya who is currently studying law and lives in Upper Tongaat.

She said she believes the EFF stands a real chance at the upcoming elections.

“KZN has always been known as the stronghold of the ANC, but people have had enough of empty promises and corruption. Once they had our vote, they forgot about us.

“I think the EFF could win or at least be the strongest opposition party.”

Jennifer Vallan

ANC Chair of finance and EXCO member

Growing up in ward 16 (Stanger), Vallon said she did not decide to go into politics – it found her.

“I came from a low-income community and became involved in social issues which followed into politics in 1996,” said Vallan, who lives in Stanger.

“The situation has changed on the ground and while Ilembe has its challenges, we have also seen successes and are working on solutions. People are vocal and upset about service delivery issues and council has been taking an interest in the concerns. One has to remember though, that we are faced with aging infrastructure and high debt which is putting a burden on our work.”

She said it was crucial that everyone casts their vote, as this is the only way to play a role in change.

“Women especially need to vote, as there are many households in our region that are headed up by single women and they are the ones who are most affected by service delivery problems. If there is no water, they are the ones who are going to walk to the river to fetch water. Women are passionate and we need that passion in politics. Vote and play your part. ”

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