WHILE no local government election will ever match the exhilaration and anticipation of that of 1994, with less than a week to go there is nevertheless loads of excitement in the wings.
In a final flurry of activity, candidates are putting the finishing touches to campaigns that have sought to sway undecided voters into placing their crosses in the respective little blocks that will determine who holds the keys to power at the local level.
Winners will ultimately be chosen as the votes are tallied; on condition the election process is declared to have been ‘free and fair’.
This is a questionable phrase, anywhere in the world.
Can it be so declared if, for example, one participant has access to vast resources – including, possibly, state resources – while another individual is self-funded?
That aside, this is a time for speculation.
Will there be surprises on 3 August?
Which party will retain its position? Which might take over?
What new councillor names will fill seats at municipal and district level?
And how about the number of independent candidates who are standing for office; what impact will they make?
Will they attract the votes of those who are tired of political posturing and unfulfilled promises?
Will some simply vote for change in a desire for improvement?
Will the balance of power shift in local councils? Will there be outright majorities or shared control?
Exciting speculation indeed and without the help of a crystal ball we shall have to wait and see.
All we ask, as the electorate, is that every candidate and party abides by the rules and above that subscribes to the highest moral code of conduct.
We don’t need intimidation, bullying, cheating or subterfuge.
Let true democracy prosper.
Good luck to all candidates.
Accept defeat gracefully. Celebrate victory humbly, remembering that being elected is not an end – it is the beginning of a life of service in a demanding position, answerable to those who elected them.
On that score, we suggest that any person who does not bother to cast a vote (thereby failing to take an active role in his or her community’s destiny) refrain from complaining for the next four years.
Make your mark, place your cross.
You never know what a difference your vote could make.
