KIMBERLEY – The upcoming local government election scheduled for 4 November is far more than another public holiday. It is an opportunity for citizens to make a difference, have their say and potentially have a hand in the turnaround of many South African towns and cities amid widespread service delivery failures and municipal decline.
This is the message from Beefmaster Group, one of Kimberley’s largest private employers, which is encouraging all registered voters in Kimberley and surrounding areas to make their voices count on election day.
“We are urging businesses across the region to encourage and support their employees, as well as all other registered voters, to participate in the democratic process on 4 November,” says Roelie van Reenen, supply chain executive at Beefmaster Group. “You cannot complain if you do not vote. Every vote matters. If you want to see change or improvements in your community, then you need to get out there and vote.”
He says the area needs more engaged citizens, especially young people, to participate in the electoral process.
“South Africans fought hard for the right to vote, which we have enjoyed since becoming a democratic nation in 1994, and this should never be taken for granted. It is an opportunity that should not be squandered.”
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Making informed decisions matters
Van Reenen encourages residents to make informed decisions before casting their votes, saying that the future of local communities depends on the quality of leadership elected into office.
“Take the time to understand what the different political parties are promising and, more importantly, whether they have the leadership and capacity to deliver on those promises. We need competent people in all spheres of local government who understand the needs of their communities and can be held accountable for delivering services.”
He cautions voters against being swayed by tactics or surface-level improvements.
“Guard against being fooled by window dressing. Fixing a pothole, tarring a road or making promises about better service delivery in the lead-up to an election does not necessarily amount to progress. Assess whether there has been real improvement in your area.”
The business case for good governance
He explains that businesses need an environment in which they can operate and grow, whilst residents need access to basic services and opportunities for employment. Poor service delivery affects everyone and makes it difficult to attract skilled people and investment to a region.
“We need municipalities that are committed to maintaining infrastructure, spending public money responsibly and working constructively with businesses and communities to solve problems. This is how we can create stronger local economies and protect jobs.”
He says that the first step is to participate in the democratic process. “Voting is one of the most important ways we can influence our collective future.”
How to get organised for voting day
With election day approaching, Van Reenen urges residents to plan ahead and ensure that they know where they are registered to vote. “Remember you may only cast your ballot at the voting station where you are registered.”
The Electoral Commission (IEC) encourages voters to confirm their voting station details before election day by sending their ID number via WhatsApp to 0600 88 0000 or by SMS to 32810, at a cost of R1 per SMS. They will receive the name of their registered voting station and their voters’ roll sequence number.
Van Reenen encourages residents to head to their voting stations early and to remember to take identification. Qualifying documents include a green barcoded ID book, smart ID card or valid temporary identity certificate.
“Make voting your first priority on Wednesday 4 November. If you find yourself in a long queue, remember that being part of the democratic process is a right enshrined in our Constitution that many other people around the world do not have. Take the opportunity to speak to the person in front of or behind you and join in the spirit of the day. Make your voice heard, cast your vote and make the opportunity count,” concludes Van Reenen.
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