Vereeniging voters turned out in their numbers at the Vereeniging City Hall and surrounding voting stations today, with residents declaring they are voting for a change.

Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) officials reported a very busy morning before voting traffic eased by 10:00. At the time, more than 750 people had already cast their ballots at the main station.

Voters expressed deep frustration with the current state of local services and a strong desire for a fresh administration.

Stephan Eigenhuis said he was eager to vote because he is desperate to see changes in the next government administration.

“We hope to get better services from our government. Our town is dirty, and there are little to no services. We need them to pull up their socks. We want to be proud of this town that was once so beautiful.”

Eigenhuis added that conditions have deteriorated over the last 30 years and expressed hope for a better future for coming generations.

Another resident, Buti Lehoko from Ward 15, shared similar sentiments, recalling how beautiful Vereeniging was when he moved there 25 years ago and how things have gone downhill.

“I’m voting for a better future for my kids; that is the only thing I want because my time has gone.”

He said most people are discouraged as a result of the disappointment they have encountered, but he urged people to use their power and vote, as there is still time.

Election day has sparked renewed calls across the community for better service delivery from the local government.