Seven reasons why you should vote

All citizens aged 18 and older have the right to vote. It is inscribed in the Bill of Rights in South Africa’s Constitution.

But does voting really make a difference? Prof Erwin Schwella, a political analyst and dean of the School of Social Innovation at Hugenote Kollege, says: “Voting makes you part of the decision making that affects your life and the future of our country. If you don’t vote, others will make the decisions for you.”

According to Schwella, voting is a way to keep councillors accountable. “Vote for them if they do good, and vote against them if they don’t do their work,” he says.

“Voting is thus not only a privilege, but also an obligation towards your country and yourself.” Some people refuse to vote in protest of the current state of politics, but Schwella says that argument does not make sense.

“If you don’t vote, your vote does not count. If you don’t vote, you get the government you deserve. I encourage people to use their democratic power and vote.

“This also goes for spoilt ballots, which are counterproductive. Nobody really takes them seriously.”

According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa, democracies with a low voter turnout are in danger of losing their freedom. In thriving democracies, people vote in large numbers and the people’s voices remain supreme.

Seven reasons why you should vote

1. Because you can!

You may take your right to vote and all other rights in our Constitution for granted, but 25 years ago, most of the people in our country were not allowed to vote. Today, all South Africans over 18 are able to have a say in choosing their national or local government in the elections.

2. Elections have consequences

You have the power to decide on the quality of life you want for yourself and your community, and even future generations. Voting is your chance to stand up for the issues you care about.

3. Not voting is giving up your voice

By participating in the electrol process as a voter, you get a say in how things are done for the next five years. Your power is in your vote.

4. It’s your money

Voting is your chance to choose how your taxes are spent – such as funding for social services, healthcare and schooling.

5. Democracy needs you!

Democracy only works if people participate.

6. Voting is an opportunity for change

“If you don’t vote, you deserve the government that comes into power,” says Schwella.

7. Our generation knows best

Social media and the internet give us access to information which previous generations of voters didn’t have.

Also see: 2021 Local Election Factsheet: Electricity in South Africa

Also see: 2021 Local Election Factsheet: Water in South Africa