#2026Localelections: Soweto residents brave queues at Emdeni Secondary School for local elections

A strong voter turnout was witnessed at Emdeni Secondary School as residents came out in numbers to cast their votes on November 4.

Election Day saw both elderly residents and young voters queuing to cast their votes, showing strong participation across different age groups as residents turned out to make their voices heard.

The polling station opened at 07:00, with voting queues moving smoothly and residents waiting in an orderly manner.

Speaking to Urban News, 76-year-old Miriam Thwala said voting was important to her as she hoped to see an improvement in her living conditions, as she continues to experience hardships.

Thwala revealed that she had lost all her children and was now solely responsible for raising her grandchildren, relying on her Sassa grant to provide for them.

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Voters call for basic services

“The money we receive from Sassa is very little, especially now that we also have to buy electricity, which is expensive. We are worried because it is becoming increasingly difficult to make ends meet. We want a government that will work for us and address our needs,” she said.

She added that some of her grandchildren had completed their studies but continued to struggle to find employment.

Thwala said all she wants is an increase in her Sassa grant, affordable electricity and more job opportunities for her grandchildren.

Sarah Zulu (63) said all they need is to see positive change in their community.

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“We are tired of the lack of service delivery in our community. We want to see a difference. Right now, we are facing challenges with electricity, water and high unemployment rates, so all we want is change,” said Zulu.

Youth demand job opportunities

Khanyisile Fica (26) said she initially did not want to vote but later realised the importance of participating in the elections to make a difference.

She said making her mark could help address some of the concerns and challenges facing her community.

Fica added that she hopes the newly elected leadership would listen to residents and work towards improving their living conditions.

“After this election, I would really like to see reliable water supply, a reduction in crime rates and the Expanded Public Works Programme creating opportunities for everyone,” she said.

The 2026 Local Government Election results are expected to be announced on Sunday, November 8.