As soon as voting stations opened, residents were ready to make their mark.
And many of them seemed hopeful that by voting, positive change would come.
Some of the main service delivery issues the people of KwaThema want improvement on include housing, employment opportunities, increase of grants and improvement of roads.
Nomvula Mello (55) says her vote shows her love for the country.
“I want a better life for all and believe the party I have voted for will deliver on its promises,” she says.
Bafana Tshabala (18) says he would like to see more bursaries being awarded to young people.
“We want better education, therefore I believe my party will make this happen.
“In our area, we would also like to see better sporting facilities for young people, because sport helps in keeping us off the streets,” he says.
Joseph Mkhwanazi (62) shares that he would love to get a house since he has been living in a shack for many years.
“I want to live well, hence I hope the party I have voted for will help me gett a house.
“Everything else I am pleased with as I have water and lights which is a big thing for me,” he says.
At another voting station, first time voter, 23-year-old Matumelo Tabohane was excited to cast her vote.
“I believe my vote will make a difference and bring about change in the area in live in.
“I would like to see an improvement in our electricity system as our cables always get stolen which affects us as the residents.
“And on a political level, I believe politicians should focus on service delivery and the people instead of what other parties are doing,” she adds.
Funeka Mangele (22) and Zukiswa Zuma (24) say they hope their votes will help them get jobs and housing for their parents.
Emma Macu (60) says she is happy to have an opportunity to vote freely for the party of her choice.
“All I am asking for, is for work for our young people as we are having to support them and our grandchildren.
“If our government can work on this, then we will be moving in the right direction,” she says.
John Mbonani (80) says he hopes his vote will ensure he continues having a good life.
