Among the 41 inmates who cast their votes at Pollsmoor Prison in Cape Town on election day, Lisakhanya Nyathi (24) and Bongani Mene (32) hoped their votes would contribute to a better South Africa.
Lisakhanya, who has completed a third of her three-year sentence for theft, dreams of a nation with less crime and more accessible, quality education for everyone. She expressed her gratitude to the South African Government for allowing prisoners to vote, emphasising how this helps shape the country’s future.
She believes elections reflect the voices and aspirations of young people and insists that South Africa needs leaders who are committed to addressing public needs and fulfilling their promises.
“I hope for more job opportunities, improved healthcare systems, and a better South Africa,” said Lisakhanya.
Bongani, from Gugulethu in the Western Cape, is serving a six-year sentence for armed robbery. He believes in the power of a vote to bring about change. His expectations for the seventh administration include creating a South Africa where races unite and work together without being divided by politics. He stressed the importance of quality education, including higher education.
Pollsmoor Prison spokesperson, Candice Van Reenen noted that some eligible inmates did not vote because they lacked their South African IDs, while others showed no interest in the process. She reported that 1 407 inmates in Western Cape correctional centres cast their votes on Wednesday.
Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola and Deputy Minister Phathekile Holomisa observed the voting process.
Ronald stated that 17 129 inmates had registered to vote at various correctional centres across the country, with the Kgoši Mampuru II Correctional Facility recording the largest number of registered inmate voters (2 908).
“We have created a conducive environment to enable inmates to vote in a safe and controlled setting. I am impressed that the voting processes are going well, and I commend IEC officials and Department of Correctional Services (DCS) officials who are on duty to ensure a smooth election,” he said.
Compiled by: Aiden Daries
First published by: Cape Town etc
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