First-time voters speak out: ‘This is why I want to vote’

Polokwane Observer visited a few registration stations in the city to speak to first-time voters and find out why they think voting is important.

POLOKWANE – According to the IEC, around 750 000 people are eligible to vote in Limpopo but had not registered by September 17 and most of them fell into the first-time voter group.

Provincial electoral officer Nkaro Mateta says the final voter registration weekend was held to give an opportunity to, among others, first-time voters to take part in the election.

“We need to motivate young people to take part in elections and to make their votes count. We want them to realise that they have a say in who represents them in the municipal council.”

Gift Matji: Before we can find the importance of voting in national election we need to fix the issues at a local level and the only way you can do that is by voting for the party or people that best represent your views.

Eugene Manyaka and Oda Singo: The importance is getting an opportunity to determine the ruling party of my choice who will be responsible for service delivery. People need to vote as much as possible. Every vote counts and I am going to make sure my vote is counted on November 1. Those who decide not to vote should not come back and complain when things don’t go their way because they had an opportunity to change the situation.

Lucas Mamabolo: I honestly believe that participation is key. We live in a democratic country but democracy will not be worth anything if we do not make proper use of it. By voting with the rest of the city I am actively taking responsibility for the community I live in. It is more than just about my ambitions but for the growth of Polokwane we need to make sure that we play a role in the election of our local government.

Tumelo Matji: I believe that by voting, young people will have the opportunity to claim back the economy by voting for a government that stands for the inclusion of youth. It is important to vote for sustainable development and an increased job market for better services.

Maribe Maphoto: I don’t really think voting makes a difference because not everyone is voting and the impact can’t be felt. I will continue to vote and continue to let my voice be heard. These elections are more important that the national elections because the people that will be elected here are those who we will have to engage with on a daily basis.

Dzunani Chauke: I personally like being part of the change. So many of us complain about service delivery but we never do anything to try and change the situation. I want to be part of that change.

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