SOWETAN | Big day for democracy as millions cast votes

Yesterday, millions of South Africans descended on polling stations to vote for change in the local government elections, much as they did in the first democratic elections in 1994.

Although much of the public debate in the coming days will focus on voter turnout and the outcome, the significance of the voters who showed up at voting stations should not be minimised. Like those who turned up in 1994 to usher in the first democratic government, this year’s local government election is about more than platitudes and numbers.

Given the growing dissatisfaction with the state of municipalities and the delivery of basic services such as water, electricity and sanitation, yesterday’s voting was also about the maturity of our democracy. Voter registration has trended upward, even when turnout in some elections has been inconsistent.

According to the Electoral Commission of SA, more than 29 million voters were registered for this election, a significant increase from the previous elections. Although the IEC will later confirm turnout, every vote counts, and the millions of South Africans who queued at polling stations to cast their ballots for a better future did their country proud.

Many of those we spoke to expressed hope that their votes would bring about the change they desire. They understood that staying home and boycotting the elections because of disillusionment with political parties and the many problems we face, such as corruption, was not an option.

Equally encouraging was seeing the enthusiasm of first-time voters who wanted to make their voices heard in decisions about their country’s future.

While voting started late in some places, many voters refused to give up and waited in long queues for hours to make their mark on the ballots. This resilience and perseverance are qualities this country needs from its people to reset its path for the future.

IEC officials worked tirelessly to resolve issues that frustrated some South Africans and steered the voting process in the right direction. The commission’s transparent processes and its willingness to resolve problems are the reason why its integrity remains intact in the eyes of many despite some attempts by others to impugn its reputation.

Of course, this is not to say the voting process went off without glitches or the few rather unfortunate incidents we reported. However, the overall sentiment in this election was one of optimism, which we share about the future of our municipalities.