South Africans need to voice their displeasure at the polls by voting or suffer the present Photo 702
South Africa – As we draw closer to South Africa’s 2024 elections, it becomes increasingly apparent the nation is grappling with a multitude of challenges, spanning economic hardships, pervasive corruption, and pressing social and legislative issues. Over the past two decades, citizens have voiced their grievances regarding the deterioration of various sectors. However, despite the chorus of complaints and calls for change, this sentiment often fails to translate into meaningful action at the ballot box. If we are to witness a South Africa that fills us with pride, if we are to witness the transformative change we desire, it is imperative that we collectively alter this pattern of apathy and significantly enhance voter turnout.
Examining the statistics, we observe that in 2014, there were 25 388 082 registered voters, and by 2019, this number had risen to 26 779 025. This represents a 5.48% increase in the eligible voter population. One might assume that this increase would lead to a higher voter turnout, but that was not the case. Surprisingly, the voter turnout in 2014 was actually higher than in 2019. Despite having more registered voters in the 2019 elections, 983 155 fewer people exercised their right to vote. In 2014, 18 654 771 people participated in the elections, whereas only 17 671 616 voters cast their ballots in the subsequent election. Consequently, the voter turnout decreased from 73.48% in 2014 to 65.99% in 2019.
This statistic alone highlights a significant issue: voter apathy. However, it also underscores the untapped potential for positive change. If the remaining percent of eligible voters were to participate, it could reshape the political landscape and direction of the nation.
The role of smaller parties and moving away from coalitions
The emergence of coalition governments in various municipalities has added complexity to the political landscape. As we look towards Johannesburg, we can see what a messy situation coalitions can turn out to be. This is why it is important the government is headed by one party and not a multitude of them come 2024, said Dr. Faisal Suliman, Chairperson at The South African Muslim Network (SAMNET).
“These coalitions seem to be only geared towards extending the gravy train … Can you imagine the mess that will happen when these coalitions are ruling at the level of cabinet? At the level of government. They just seem to be self-serving. What it does show is two things. One is we need a 70% or 80% turnout at the polls to send these politicians a clear message. Secondly, once we are there, we need to have people in smaller parties. In this election, those five or six seats in Parliament are going to give you a lot of leverage. This leverage can be used for positive change.”
While the broader South African community shares common concerns such as corruption and service delivery, specific issues also need representation. The Muslim community, like other minority groups, has unique concerns related to religious freedoms, foreign policy, and cultural preservation. Having members of these communities, who are generally part of the small parties, in Parliament ensures that these concerns are given the attention they deserve.
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The call to action to register to vote
We cannot afford to remain passive observers. This is not a vote for a class president or the year’s favourite footballer; this is a vote of profound significance. While we may harbour disdain for politicians, it is essential to acknowledge their pivotal role in determining what gets addressed and what remains unattended. They hold the power to make critical decisions regarding various bills and legislations that exert a direct impact on our daily lives. There is a lot that is happening in the background as well. Things that will slip past us if we do not vote for those who will protect our rights and freedoms.
“Some bureaucrat in the Department of Health decided, without consultation, to issue a notice that headscars no longer be allowed for nurses … There’s never been an issue of contamination, sterilisation etc. Now suddenly you have some bureaucrat who knows the IMA SA (Islamic Medical Association of South Africa), you don’t consult [them] and just issue, almost like a red notice, no more headscarves allowed. Now a simple thing like that … when Muslims are present in Parliament, you can’t escape that. They are there. You’re seeing them, you’re involved with them, they’re sitting on the health portfolio committee. When something like this comes up, immediately you can do something about it. You don’t have to be scrambling.”
Individuals such as Ahmed Munzoor Shaik Emam, the leader of The National Freedom Party (NFP), have consistently championed the cause of Palestine and other matters concerning the Muslim community within the confines of Parliament. Al-Jama’ah, with its solitary seat in Parliament, has also contributed to voicing Muslim concerns. However, with only two seats representing these interests, the potential impact remains limited.
Suliman has thus called on everyone over the age of 18 to register to vote. It’s a simple process that you can complete from the ease of your mobile phone. Spread the message within your community, mosque, or any platform you have access to. Use Juma lectures, public speeches, and school assemblies to remind people of the importance of voter registration.
Voter registration transcends mere civic duty; it embodies a powerful tool to mould the nation’s destiny. Through active participation and the promotion of diverse representation, South Africans hold the potential to steer a course toward positive transformation, tackle pressing challenges, and forge a brighter collective future. The forthcoming 2024 elections stand as a pivotal moment for our nation. Opting for abstention from voting means forgoing the right to voice discontent, with only ourselves to blame. Every vote matters, every voice carries weight, and it is incumbent upon each of us to ensure our voices resonate loudly when the election day arrives.
