Report Back – Ann McDonnell

Preparing for National and Provincial Elections next year made me very mindful of the amazing experience at the first democratic elections in 1994.   Such excitement and unity in the long queues!
I was working as Party Agent at the Umhlali School station at that miraculous event 20 years ago, and the memories are so clear of the optimism we all felt for Nelson Mandela’s dream of a Rainbow Nation.
This  is why it is strange to me that so many people are not interested in registering to vote! Young folk particularly don’t seem to believe that it is important. That sort of apathy is what handed Mugabe the right to destroy Zimbabwe, and we must guard against that at all costs. South Africa is just too precious to take so lightly. Just imagine, you get close to the voting day next year, get inspired by a candidate, but you are not registered – frustration with a capital “F”!
Which brings me to the date of the registration weekend – November 9 and 10.  Every polling station will be open on both days. Unfortunately, the IEC has had no day-to-day presence in this area, so unless one has gone to Stanger there has been no way to change your registration if you have moved into the area or turned 16 since the last election.   Please make use of this opportunity. If you would like a reminder or transport assistance, call me.   Also please contact me if you are unable through disability or illness to get to the station as special registrations may be arranged.
The main change for next year in the old Dolphin Coast area is in Ward 6, Ballito. The extreme pressure on the library last election made it practical to add another voting station to Ward 6. The Lions Club Hall in Townsend Road was chosen, incidentally long before the outcry about the hall development this year. All residents between Ballito Drive/Hawkins Road South to the old M4 alignment, Zimbali, must reregister at the Scout Hall.   North of Ballito Drive to Shakas Rock residents will stay at the Ballito Library.
Ward 22 committee requests:
• We are starting a sewing group for domestic workers on Thursday afternoons at Salt Rock Library – any machines or expertise you can offer?  Sembcorp has come to the party to cover rent and power, so we would like to start soon, but some ladies have no machines.
• Sizani’s vegetable garden needs veggie seedlings. The kids will water and look after the plants.
Mayoral Imbizo meetings are rolling out this month – Ward 22 will be on October 24 at 6pm at Shakaskraal Primary School, where we will be planning for a future Community Hall. It would be good if as many people as possible attend to inform the Mayor and officials of your service delivery problems. I hope to see you there.