Will your X make a difference? Young, first-time voters have their say

With national elections on the horizon, there might be mixed emotions about the outcome, especially looking at the current status of the country.

Young first-time voters shared their opinions on whether their vote would make a difference in the upcoming elections.

Tintswalo Mabasa said she believes that her vote alone will not make a difference, but if all the Gen Z of this country who are eligible to vote can come together and go vote, there will be a much bigger difference.

Alok Surajlall said, “I believe my vote will make a difference, mainly because young people have found themselves in a big hole and we are getting influenced in the wrong way. As an aspiring business owner, I aim to create jobs and tackle the current government water shortage. Mainly the electricity, water, and high crime rate.”

Katlego Moagi added, “As a first-time voter, my vote will make a difference because everything is not right in this country. Business and finance wise, and my vote will change that.”

Ilanya Mandelstam believes her vote will make a difference because, as first-time voters, ‘we need to be united and work together for the change we want’.

Tshegofatso Mhiko said, “No, I don’t think my vote will make a difference. There are so many small parties and independent candidates that people’s votes may be divided. My vote may help the small parties get a seat or a few in parliament, but it definitely won’t change our ruling government.”