The call comes after the IEC revealed that more than 70% of eligible South Africans between the ages of 18 and 19 have not registered to vote.
The South African Local Government Association (SALGA), together with the IEC, is urging young people to make their voices heard in the upcoming local government elections.
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The call comes after the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) revealed that more than 70% of eligible South Africans between the ages of 18 and 19 have not registered to vote.
Local polls are a crucial opportunity for citizens to choose leaders who will directly impact their daily lives through decisions on service delivery, infrastructure, and community development.
The IEC encourages young voters to educate themselves about the candidates and issues, ensuring their choices reflect their values and aspirations. By casting their ballots, youth can help drive positive change and hold elected officials accountable.
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Moreover, the IEC aims to dispel any misconceptions that local elections are less significant than national ones. Every vote counts, and youth engagement is essential for vibrant, representative governance. The commission is also working to make voting accessible and straightforward, offering information and support to first-time voters and those unfamiliar with the electoral process.
EWN spoke to SALGA spokesperson Motalatale Modiba, Modiba said “several factors may be contributing to the low registration numbers among young people. He also stated that it is important to understand these concerns and encourage greater youth participation in the democratic process.
Later, saying “It’s important that those issues that are a source of concern, perhaps poor service delivery and other issues, are matched by civic participation. And, therefore, we would urge young people that they must use their voice during these coming local government elections, that the right to vote was hard-won through sacrifice.”
Modiba urged citizens not to take the opportunity to vote for granted.
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