This is your chance to make a difference

One of the biggest democratic events will take place this year – the municipal elections.

Everyone is talking about the latest violence and plundering at universities as well as the general increase in crime.

To say it has escalated out of control is an understatement.

It is a privilege to be able to attend a college or university, not a birthright. So many people are not as fortunate to attend such institutions.

If you want to make a difference in a country in which your children can prosper, make sure you are registered to vote. If you don’t like what is happening around you, go vote.

I also hear people say their vote will not make a difference.

How would you know? Your vote might just be the one to change the current situation. If you don’t vote, you cannot complain, you cannot have an opinion about crime, fraud and corruption and the general lack of basic services.

However, before you go make your mark, make sure you are voting for the right party. Do your homework. Speak to your local councillors and find out what they have been doing these past four years to make your neighbourhood safer and cleaner and improved service delivery.

Your vote is confidential, nobody can force you to vote for a certain party.

Things cannot continue as they are now.

Get your friends, family and neighbours and go to the registration office and voting stations.

It sounds like a cliché, but your voice and vote do count.

Until next week, take care of one another.