Voters remain upbeat despite long queues in Daveyton, Crystal Park and Petit
Benoni residents headed to the polls for the seventh election since the dawn of democracy.
There was a huge voter turnout at Petit High School and Crystal Park Clinic this morning, May 29 where hundreds of residents queued in snaking line to cast their votes.
While some residents expressed feelings of excitement others were anxious as they geared up to vote for the party that they think deserves their vote.
According to the presiding officer, Aubrey, they opened on time and no hiccups were reported.
Eugene Chiloane, who cast his vote at Crystal Park Clinic, said he decided to vote in order to bring change in the country, especially with regard to crime.
Another Crystal Park resident who exercised his democratic right to vote is Adam Gerber, who arrived at the voting station at 07:30 with his wife, Martie.
“I am voting because I want service delivery issues to be prioritised, such as fixing potholes and street lights that are not functioning,” said Gerber.
Phumla Nkosi said: “Due to the alarming rate of unemployed graduates, we want graduates to be recognised and various skills development programmes to be extended. State employees should also be recognised for their contributions while working not when they go on pension.”
At Petit High School, voters complained that they stood in long queues for hours.
Rody Oosthuizen who was a bit frustrated, said he arrived at the voting station at 07:00 but by 11:00 he was still in the queue.
“The process isn’t that efficient. I hope this is resolved soon,” said Oosthuizen.
A young voter, Bianca Cilliers, said she’s voting for a better future, road improvements and better infrastructure.
IEC area manager for ward 25 Goodwright Sekhoela said they reported a smooth start to the casting of votes despite opening a few minutes after 07:00.
SAPS and EMPD officers remained on high alert on all voting stations to ensure peaceful voting.
Meanwhile, residents who cast their votes at Sinaba Stadium in Daveyton expressed frustration about long waiting times.
Voters cited poor training of IEC members for this.
Gallery:
“We want a university in Ekurhuleni because there are no university facilities available in Ekurhuleni and we want free education,” said Mnguni.
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