SEBOKENG. – An informative election debate was held at the Zone 7 Library, in Sebokeng on Friday.
Organised by youth organisation Activate Change Drivers, Citizen Link & IEC in partnership with Residensia Library (Zone 7 Sebokeng) the “Kasi Youth Election Debate” debate saw the community in attendance and being addressed by different political party leaders including the Democratic Alliance (DA), Rise Mzansi and ACT. The African National Congress (ANC) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) were also invited but did not attend.
A political analyst from the North West Vaal (NWU), a Youth and Women in parliament member, a Social Cohesion Advocate in the Department of Sport, Art and Culture, and a representative from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) were also present.
The topics discussed were the importance of the 2024 elections, party manifestos, and electoral procedures. One of the most important topics also revolved around youth participation in the upcoming elections.
“The 2024 elections are the most important in South Africa as we see splinter groups from the ruling party and analysts predicting that the ruling party might lose their dominance. Our people should know that they have to practice their right to vote, thereby holding the government accountable. This is an important era; we must choose carefully. For those that we choose to fulfill our expectations,” said Dr Sysman Motloung, a political analyst from NWU.
The community was also given a chance to participate by asking panelists questions about their manifestos and issues that are affecting them, particularly service delivery, unemployment, water and electricity load shedding.
In the program, directed by Frans Ntsoereng, the community was also informed about the importance of democracy, the Constitution, and citizens’ rights.
The DA’s Kingsol Chabalala said, “Our people need to be educated about their rights, democracy, and the importance of being visible and active participants in the government.”
In total 52 political parties and independents will contest the elections that are to be held on May 29.
