JOHANNESBURG – South Africans turned out in large numbers early Wednesday morning as polling stations opened at 7 am. Voters across the nation expressed their enthusiasm and concerns, highlighting the importance of this election.
In Eshowe, KwaZulu-Natal, many residents shifted their support to the uMkhonto weSizwe party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, who was expected to vote near his Nkandla home. Historically, this area has been a stronghold for the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and the African National Congress (ANC).
In Bloemfontein, Free State, voters braved the cold, arriving almost an hour before stations opened. They expressed a strong desire for change, with one voter stating, “We all standing here because we want to see some changes.” Another added, “We need a change in our country and I need a God-fearing government.”
In Vuwani, Limpopo, frustrations over a police station under construction for over 12 years drove residents to the polls. Crime rates have soared, and one resident commented, “I came to vote so that load shedding can end. We need the spirit of ubuntu in this community.”
In Joubert Park, Johannesburg, the largest voting station in the country saw significant turnout despite efforts to reduce traffic by adding more stations. Issues like dirty running water, unattended garbage, and dilapidated buildings were still prevalent.
In George, Western Cape, Thembalethu township saw early queues, with elderly residents braving the chilly weather. Reverend Siyanda Sijila remarked, “This is the time to make our choices to vote for the people that we believe can take this country forward.”
In Greenpoint, Northern Cape, residents of Greenpoint and Diamond Park, plagued by regular sewage leaks from broken pipes, stressed the need for basic services. Resident Maggie Leshabane emphasized, “I vote because our children must work. We must get houses and clean water. The roads must also be fixed.”
In White River, Mpumalanga, Msholozi residents queued at Boschrand Primary School, expressing their hopes for better roads and long-awaited RDP houses. Economic Freedom Fighters’ treasurer general Omphile Maotwe was set to vote there.
In Edgemead, Western Cape, Cape Town’s northern suburbs saw long queues. Families turned out at Edgemead Primary School, where Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis was expected to vote. Despite a 30-minute delay, the process went smoothly, with one resident noting, “Everything went good, nice and simple.”
