From the cost of living and access to healthcare to education, water, electricity and public transport, decisions made by elected representatives influence many aspects of daily life. Voting allows you to have a say in who makes those decisions.
Government decisions affect your everyday life
Whether you follow political news or not, government policies influence the services available in your community.
Municipal councils are responsible for important local services, including water and sanitation, refuse removal, municipal roads and electricity distribution where applicable.
This means voting is not only about supporting a political party. It is also about choosing the people responsible for decisions that affect your neighbourhood and quality of life.
Your vote gives you a voice
Some people believe their individual vote will not make a difference. However, elections are decided by the combined choices of voters, and every vote contributes to the outcome.
You do not have to agree with everything a political party stands for. Instead, consider the candidates, their track records, promises and plans to address issues affecting your community.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) encourages eligible citizens to participate in elections as part of their democratic rights.
Also see: Why voting matters: The power of your voice
Voting promotes accountability
Voting also allows citizens to hold elected representatives accountable.
Before making your choice, consider whether local leaders have delivered on their promises, addressed service delivery challenges and communicated with residents.
Researching candidates and comparing party manifestos can help you make an informed decision instead of voting based on popularity, pressure or social media trends.
Remember the history behind your right to vote
South Africa’s democratic voting rights were hard-won. Before the country’s first democratic elections in 1994, the majority of Black South Africans were excluded from national elections under apartheid.
Today, voting represents an important democratic freedom and an opportunity to participate in choosing the country’s leadership.
Local elections matter too
Local government elections are particularly important because municipalities make decisions about services residents depend on daily.
Section 152 of the Constitution outlines local government’s objectives, including providing democratic and accountable government and ensuring sustainable service delivery.
You do not need to be a political expert
You do not have to follow every political debate to make an informed choice. Start by researching candidates in your area, checking their records and comparing their plans.
Your vote is also private, and nobody should pressure you into supporting a particular party.
Ultimately, you may not be interested in politics, but you are affected by the decisions politicians make. Your vote is your voice, and using it is one way to help shape the future of your community.
Featured image: Gallo Images/Sharon Seretlo
Also see: 12 October deadline for IEC special vote applications
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