Written by: Mfundo Mabaso

It’s Election Day and the ques are long as usual at voting stations but this time around it’s a different generation that’s filling up the lines.

Various voting stations are filled with young voters as they que to place their mark for local government elections. Hopeful young South Africans carry smiles on their faces as they proceed to reach the voting box.

Nokukhanya Ngidi (19) shared her experience of voting for the first time.

“Although the long line was annoying, I was excited to vote for the first time. I am hoping that there will be change in the community because there is a lot that needs to be done here,” said Ngidi.

“Even though there is still a lot to be done, I feel that community development is on the right track and heading towards the right direction,” said Ngidi.

However, not all youngsters see the need to vote.

An unhappy 19-year-old Babalwa Matiyela expressed her disappointments with some political leaders who live in luxurious houses whilst many voters continued to live in slums. She carried pictures of some of their houses.

“This picture is the reason I am not voting and the ANC will always win and be more corrupt therefore I don’t see the need to vote,” said Matiyela.

Swazi Simelane (19) added, “I also don’t see the need to vote because even if I vote there will be no change in this community. The youth of this community is still unemployed and there are no recreational facilities for the youth so I rather not vote.”

“The Councilor of this ward needs to sit down and communicate with the people of this community when they will come up with solutions of the problems of this community,” concluded Simelane.

Elders on the que also did not want to feel left out as voting is for everyone and they felt that it is their responsibility to educate the youth about voting.

Beauty Nkomo (63) said, “It gives me joy to see young people in this que with us to practice their rights. Voting is everyone’s right because as they grow up there will be opportunities just like how we fought for our rights during the struggle, we can see drastic and beautiful change. Keep it up my children!”

Voting will continue until 19h00 today and it is compulsory to have an Identity Document when heading to your voting station.