Written by: Siphiwe Chris Mathebula
Article source: JOY! Magazine

We have the national elections coming up in 2024, which is going to be a big year for every South African. While this might seem like it’s still far off, it’s not. Many politicians are already at work subtly and out-rightly influencing voters. This is why it is important for every South African to use their vote wisely – including Christians, if I may I add.

South Africa’s governance
There can be many different systems of national governance, from dictatorship to democratic rule. The Republic of South Africa is a parliamentary representative democratic republic. The President of South Africa serves both as Head of State and Head of Government. The President is elected by the National Assembly (the lower house of the South African Parliament) and must retain the confidence of the Assembly in order to remain in office. South Africans also elect Provincial Legislatures which govern each country’s nine provinces. Our leaders are not only appointed by their respective parties; they are also voted into office by citizens. ‘Suffrage’ is the right to vote in political elections, and we must be grateful that we exercise this right freely.

We hold the power
Many people are in the habit of complaining about the poor performance of leaders, particularly in government. Then, surprisingly, they vote those leaders into a second term of office.

I am always baffled by this. If we are not satisfied with the performance of the politicians we voted for, we have the power as Devoted Citizens to vote for better leaders in the next election. Some election systems do not even wait for the next election; non-performers are simply recalled before their term is over.

Not voting = irresponsible
Voting is active participation in issues of national interest and possibly, a very effective way of finding solutions to national problems – but it has to be done responsibly. One way or the other, we all vote. If you do not vote, it is the same as voting for the losing candidate or party. Voter apathy is blindly donating votes to the eventual winner. It is also a sign of a passive attitude towards matters that affect us. If voting is your responsibility, not voting renders you irresponsible. Your vote is priceless and has far-reaching outcomes. It should not be traded in for short-term gratification. After all, your vote is your secret. Vote buying or “freebies” for potential voters can never be exchanged for such a precious commodity as your vote.

Youth can influence outcomes
Young people have a responsibility to vote as well. They should be encouraged to vote. Pretending and hoping youth unemployment and other problems will just go away doesn’t help anyone!

Voters have influence
As Devoted Citizens, our responsibility doesn’t end with voting. Before casting your vote for a candidate or political party, ask yourself whether they are people and a party of integrity. Does the party or candidate have a clean track record? Are they serious about rooting out corruption? Are they there for the citizens or for their own gain? Go even deeper. Explore the policies of political parties. Look at their future plan. They all promise to create jobs. Check out their policies to stimulate job creation and provide skills development. Remember to thank such people. Acknowledge public officials who work hard and with integrity. If they are doing a great job, re-elect them. If not, don’t. Always remember to thank those who are doing good.

Get involved!
Vote with the next generation in mind. As Christians, we have a role to place in influencing the future of our country and the time is now. Get involved.

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Date published: 23/09/2022
Feature image: www.flickr.com

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