First-time voter: 22-year-old Rethabile Malefetse
Rather than merely complaining about issues such as unemployment, lack of service delivery, NSFAS problems, and poor infrastructure, she believes that voting is essential to bringing about the change people desire.
SEBOKENG.- The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has announced that over 27.79 million voters are eligible to cast their votes in the 2024 National and Provincial elections, the highest number since the dawn of democracy in South Africa.
In the small township of Zone 7, 22-year-old Rethabile Malefetse will be voting for the first time. She is motivated by a desire to see change in the country and believes that participation in elections is crucial. Rather than merely complaining about issues such as unemployment, lack of service delivery, NSFAS problems, and poor infrastructure, Rethabile believes that voting is essential to bringing about the change people desire.
She emphasises that not voting will not resolve these problems.
“I have decided to vote because I want to see change in our country. I will go with the EFF because it is a reasonable party that is fighting for people, especially students in universities or colleges who struggle to register. The EFF steps in to help those students,” she explained.
Malefetse also believes that the SRD R350 grants should be dismissed in favour of creating more jobs. She points out that although NASI iSPANI has had vacancies, many remain unemployed, including graduates. This situation discourages youth in higher education, as they fear they will join the ranks of the unemployed after earning their degrees.
She noted: “The 2024 elections coincide with South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy. But to be honest, are we truly free? As a nation, we are still fighting for freedom. There is much to be done to achieve real freedom in this country. We have poor infrastructure, especially here in the Vaal, with no tourist attractions and potholes everywhere. How can we raise money as a country without tourists to generate funds? There is sewage in every township street in the Vaal. I am not saying the leading party has done nothing, but I am suggesting we give other parties a chance to rule and see what they can do. The ANC has been in power for nearly three decades now; it is time for change.”
Rethabile reflects on the sacrifices made for freedom and questions whether it has been worth it. She feels that the current state of freedom allows people to avoid confronting the truth. To her, democracy means unity to ensure the safety and prosperity of future generations. She believes the nation must stand up and fight for the betterment of the coming generations.
