With Election Day announced we have about 170 days to change the political landscape in KwaDukuza and the greater South Africa.

However the biggest challenge we face is voter apathy. Voter turnout in Ballito is declining. The apathy doesn’t just come on Election Day. It comes at councilors’ public meetings, IDPs, getting involved in local branches, civic engagement etc.

This is not good for the majority of ward 30 that lives in gated estates. Residents in these estates have their own private security, back-up electricity and other professionals servicing their ‘bubble’. Not to mention that Ballito has become a haven for younger families. This generation might not be that strongly into politics or just choose a different lifestyle that does not depend on politics and service delivery.

As part of my ongoing registration drive I was at a new estate that have just completed phase one with 40 families, of which only four residents came to register in the three hours that I spent there.

Residents’ frustrations also result in disengagement from the necessary structures and public participations. When local government fails, people feel that voting doesn’t change outcomes.

I encourage everyone to please correctly register to vote at their current voting station. You can check your registration by smsing 32810 or check.da.org.za or send me a personal WhatsApp.

Also, should anyone wish to assist or contribute to the DA for the upcoming elections please don’t hesitate to contact me at 061 686 9071 or jacksballito@gmail.com