REGISTER TO VOTE THIS WEEKEND

DEMOCRACY BEGINS AT LOCAL LEVEL 

By Thami AkaMbongo Manzana

This weekend presents an important opportunity for all South Africans to take a simple but powerful step in shaping the future of our communities: register to vote or update your voting details.

If you are not yet registered as a voter, use this weekend wisely and make sure your name is on the voters' roll. If you have moved and are currently living in a different area from where you originally registered, take the time to update your address so that you can vote in the correct voting district.

Many citizens often focus their attention on national politics, yet the reality is that the quality of our daily lives is heavily influenced by decisions made at local government level. Roads, community facilities, libraries, arts centres, public spaces, local economic development, and many of the services that directly affect us are managed by municipalities.

For years, many South Africans have argued that the traditional top-down approach to governance has not delivered the results that communities need. If we truly believe that communities should have a stronger voice in shaping their future, then we must actively participate in the democratic process.

Getting local government right is the foundation for building effective provincial governments. Strong municipalities create stronger provinces, and stronger provinces contribute to a more responsive and accountable national government. This is where the principle of "Power to the People" becomes more than a slogan, it becomes a lived reality.

The upcoming Local Government Elections provide an opportunity for citizens to influence the direction of their communities. You may not have decided yet which political party or candidate deserves your vote. That decision can still be made later.

What matters right now is ensuring that you are registered and eligible to participate when election day arrives.

You have until 4 November 2026 to make your final decision on who will receive your vote. However, if you are not registered, or if your voting details are incorrect, you risk losing your opportunity to participate altogether.

This weekend, take a few minutes to:

• Register to vote if you are not already registered.
• Verify that your voting details are correct.
• Update your address if you have moved.
• Encourage others to do the same.

Democracy does not begin in Parliament. Democracy begins in our communities, our wards, and our municipalities.

Register. Verify. Participate.

The future of our communities depends on it.

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