First-time voters optimistic about the country’s future after making their mark
ALEXANDRA – Voters in Alexandra said they were hoping that their votes will bring a positive change in their lives.
Despite cold weather conditions and minor technical glitches in some voting stations, eligible electorates in Alexandra came out in numbers to vote in this year’s highly contested general elections.
Technical delays due to scanners problems in some voting stations could not deter voters who started arriving at the stations as early as 6am. Electorates had to choose one party of their choice out of 48 parties that were contesting elections on a national ballot paper to lead the sixth democratic parliament.
Among those who took part in the process was first-time voters 18-year-old Ntombikhona Macu and 22-year-old Sfundo Ndwandwe who believe that their participation in this year’s elections will bring positive results in their individual lives.
“I voted today because I want to see the dream of many young South Africans to access tertiary education without worrying about how they will pay their fees being fulfilled. I want to see tertiary education system free in the country,” Macu said.
Ndwandwe, who lives in a shack and works as a general worker in a fruits and vegetable distribution company in the area, said his dream was to get a better job that will allow him to support his family and afford a better place to rent.
“I have a job but it’s not a good enough to support me and my family. I can’t even afford to rent a shack. I hope my vote will count in eradicating housing corruption and maladministration in that department. I hope the next government will prioritise the issue of housing in the area and come up with a plan for affordable houses for those who want to buy but cannot afford,” Ndwandwe said.
According to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), the final results are expected to be released on Saturday afternoon on 11 May this year.
Related article:
