With local elections drawing closer, the Roodepoort Record took to the streets to find out whether community members are registered to vote, what they are voting for, and which issues they believe should be urgently addressed in their communities.

Mohammed Inayat said he will not be voting this year, as he would rather make a difference himself.

“I’m a human activist, so I believe in making a difference myself rather than giving my vote to someone else,” said Inayat.

“There isn’t one specific issue that needs to be addressed because there are many. We need upgrades in the city, and there is overpopulation. There aren’t enough schools, drainage systems or electricity.”

Yulisha Naidoo said she is not registered to vote and has never voted before.

“Maybe I will consider voting when I see changes in employment, water and electricity,” she said.

Christina Montshiwa-Letsapa said she is also not registered to vote and will not be participating in this year’s elections.

“I do not benefit from anything by voting, and I do not see the need to vote,” she said.

She raised concerns about what she believes is a lack of action from government, saying residents’ concerns are not being taken seriously.

“I applied for an RDP house, and I was rejected. I have voted before, but our ministers and councillors are not fulfilling their promises to us as residents,” she said.

Yousuf Saith said he is registered to vote and believes crime should be urgently addressed as it is getting out of hand.

Triston Quinn (24) said he will not be voting in this year’s local government elections and has never voted before.

“I haven’t looked into any political party where I can look at their manifesto and say I trust and believe that they are going to enforce what they are telling me. It’s a trust issue in South Africa. It becomes tiring and disheartening when you believe all the time but don’t see any results,” he said.

According to Quinn, crime, immigration, education and employment are among the main issues that need to be addressed.

Helena Roets said she is registered to vote and believes several issues need urgent attention, particularly the killing of women and children.