Ward 42 by-elections bring hope

Ward 42 residents in Ramaphosa headed to the polls from as early as 7am to make their voices heard with their X.

The Advertiser visited two polling stations in Ramaphosa, Conquerors Through Christ Ministries and Noncedo Day Care Centre where voters were spotted queuing to make their mark.

The presiding officers at these polling stations highlighted that there were no hassles and the business of the day was proceeding smoothly, with people adhering to Covid-19 protocols.

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Presiding officer Monwabisi Zingange, who was stationed at the Noncedo Day Care Centre, said about 160 voters had already cast their votes when the Advertiser visited the polling station just after midday.

He further shared that they were expecting about 2 011 voters to visit the polling station.

Meanwhile, at the Conquerors Through Christ Ministries, about 200 people had already cast their vote.
One of the voters, an 87-year-old Mary Mofokeng said she was happy to have cast her vote.

Another voter, Ester Masilela (78), told the Advertiser that she was voting as she expects the municipality to build roads for the community in the area.

One of the young voters, Gaapalelwe Phatlhane, said she was voting in order to see change in her ward, but most importantly for employment opportunities.

Another resident Donald Ramoshaba (34) said he was voting because he wants an RDP house. “I’ve been living in a shack for all my life; I am tired of my living conditions. I hope with my vote I can push for change,” Ramoshaba said.

Showing off their inked thumbs are Paulina Mokoena and Josephine Biti.

Ward 42 consists of the following areas: Ramaphosa, Buhle Park, Cruywagen Park, Klipportjie, Els Park and Tedstoneville.

The ward was previously represented by the ANC, and the ward seat became vacant as a result of the death of its former councillor, Eva Ngcwama.

Also Read: Ward 42 by-elections scheduled for December 9

Also Read: ELECTIONS: Stations to open in March for new voters to register