GEORGE NEWS - Residents of Kleinkrantz are used to seeing Kevin Jones motoring through their streets in his old motorised wheelchair.
On Monday 2 November, democracy came to him.
Affectionately known to some as the ‘mayor of Kleinkrantz’, Jones (47) has spent years looking out for his community, despite living with motor neurone disease (MND), a progressive condition that has severely affected his mobility.
On Monday, some Electoral Commission (IEC) officials visited his home so he could cast his special vote ahead of the local government elections on Wednesday 4 November.
Unable to travel to a voting station, Jones was grateful for the opportunity to exercise his democratic right, although the experience showed how much more could be done to make voting accessible to people with disabilities.
“The IEC workers did an amazing job - well done to them. The police officer was always smiling. I voted, but I still needed help from a family member,” he said.
“If we can improve the system, like voting online, it would be great for many disabled people.”
He also thanked the IEC officials who assisted the people who are unable to stand in queues or travel to voting stations.
A familiar face in Kleinkrantz
For Jones, being involved in his community is nothing new.
Originally from Johannesburg, he moved to the Garden Route in 2015 and was diagnosed with MND about a year later, following years of difficulties with his mobility.
The condition affects the nerves responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement, causing progressive weakness and loss of physical function.
But Jones has never been one to sit back and watch life pass him by. Before his condition progressed, he established a gardening business in Kleinkrantz, employing five people.
He had previously farmed with his uncle in Johannesburg and wanted to use his experience to create employment opportunities in his new community.
Eventually, his declining mobility forced him to give up the business, but not his determination to make a difference.
Over the years, he has helped establish a neighbourhood watch, patrolled the area in his wheelchair, kept an eye on streetlights and organised community clean-ups.
He has also helped arrange animal welfare outreaches for local pet owners. A couple of years ago, he took up mouth painting when the use of his hands became increasingly limited. He also experienced the thrill of a tandem paragliding flight in Wilderness.
“Never give up. Do not let your disability disable you. Don’t live a meaningless life - get up and do something meaningful.”
A better Kleinkrantz for everyone
His vote on Monday was about more than simply participating in an election. Jones has a clear vision of what he would like to see improved in the community he loves.
At the top of his list are roads that are properly repaired, rather than repeatedly patched, and more rubbish bins along the beach road to prevent paper and plastic from ending up in the sea.
He would also like to see the local park better maintained, invasive alien plants removed, more benches installed and additional play equipment for children.
Streetlight maintenance is another priority.
Jones believes Kleinkrantz would benefit from a community wall decorated with colourful artwork, rather than being used as a dumping ground.
He also wants a safe sports field for young people.
But two of his wishes are particularly close to home. He would love to see a shaded community gathering area with benches where elderly residents and people with disabilities could meet, socialise and enjoy being outdoors.
He also believes the ward councillor should be more visible in Kleinkrantz, with regular community meetings giving residents opportunities to raise their concerns.
He feels his requests are simple, practical improvements aimed at making Kleinkrantz a cleaner, safer and more welcoming place for everyone.
Making every voice count
Living with MND means Jones relies on assistance with many everyday tasks most people take for granted.
Despite the challenges he faces, Jones continues to take an active interest in what happens beyond his front door.
He hopes future elections will provide greater independence to people with disabilities when they cast their votes.
For now, his attention remains on the roads, parks, streetlights and people of Kleinkrantz.
He may not be the area’s elected mayor, but he certainly cares about its future. And on Monday, he made sure his voice was heard.
Kevin Jones in 2022 shortly after he took up mouth painting. Photo: Kristy Ayliffe
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