Voters hope for change

GEORGE NEWS - Anesipho Gala from Lawaaikamp joined George Herald's reporters on Monday to assist the newspaper in covering the local government elections. She shares her experience and thoughts on the day:

Voters are really hoping for change in their communities. Some believe that their political parties have done a lot to prove that they are capable, while others are doubtful but hoping for the best.

Currently it appears that some residents don't consider voting as vital. Instigated by the dissatisfaction that political parties convey to residents, these Thembalethans feel that there is not much hope for change.

Still, many people around George did go out to vote in the hope that eventually there will be change. For me, seeing young people campaigning for different political parties and taking responsibility to vote was inspiring. I hope that more people will get to understand the significance of voting.

Social influence as originating from friends, family and social media plays a role in voting behaviour. With unemployment a huge problem across South Africa for many young people, voting is vital to them, and I hope that more young people will be inspired to vote for change.

Various political leaders promise to deliver change, but people want to see the change happening. Not all residents are losing hope for change, I too hope that a lot will change around George. I hope that definite change does come to bear - that all residents will experience the change.

I asked various voters why they voted and what changes they would like to see after voting.

The majority said they voted because they want to see change and have a say. A 19-year-old young man from Lawaaikamp who was voting for the first time said he was excited to vote. "I have always seen people voting and I wanted to experience it too. I voted for a party and a candidate that I believe will bring change to my community," he said.

Elizabeth Mohlala (28), a resident in Ward 13, did not vote. "Because," she said, "the democracy that our mothers and fathers fought for in this country has lost its meaning. Instead of things getting better and South Africa developing into a better country for all, things just seem to be getting worse, from basic services to the development of youth skills. People go into politics not to serve the citizens, but to enrich themselves."

She said they only get to see these political leaders and their members when they are campaigning for votes in their communities. "I do not trust any of these political parties, because they all talk but there is no action."

In the voting station at Christ The Redeemer Anglican Church in Thembalethu, people were still voting at 20:43. Photo: Anesipho Gala