VANDERBIJLPARK – Hundreds of hopeful voters stood in long lines on Wednesday, May 29, driven by a shared vision of hope for betterment.

Despite the government’s failure in recent years, they turned out in their numbers to cast their ballots in the 2024 National Elections, reflecting a renewed belief in the power of their vote.

Ster South took to the streets of Vanderbijlpark and Bophelong, where the scene was the same day and night with long queues of people waiting patiently, some for hours on end.

Speaking to Ster South, several voters shared their reasons for enduring the long wait, with each story emphasising hope.Mpho Ndlovu, a first-time voter, expressed a sense of civic responsibility.

“I believe that my vote can make a difference. It’s not just about me but about the future of our country. Standing in this line is a small price to pay for a better tomorrow, after all the power is in our hands,” she said.

Thandiwe Mokoena, a mother of three, emphasised the importance of setting an example for her children.
“I want my kids to see that participating in our democracy is essential. We can’t complain about the government if we don’t take action to change it,” she said.

Lydia Motloung said she believed voting again would afford his children and grandchildren a better future.

“Since day one I voted and continue to do because that’s the only application for better lives. “We may have not seen much change recently, however, there is still hope that if we hold them accountable through our shared votes, they will one day be obliged to deliver to our needs,” she said.

Not everyone in the queues was as optimistic, though.Kate Nkuna admitted to feeling disappointed by past elections.

“I’ve voted before and haven’t seen much change. But staying at home won’t solve anything either.
“I’m here because I still hold a glimmer of hope that this time, things might be different,” she said.