Before we go any further, let’s address the elephant in the room: Democracy kinda sux! Anyone who has ever worked in a group knows that. But it is the best option humankind has come up with so far.
Whether you are a student, entrepreneur, employee, employer, or stay-at-home parent, the upcoming local general election IS your business. Everyone who has a stake in South Africa should make their mark:
“One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.” Plato
Why Should I Vote?
Note: Plato lives hundreds of years B.C., which tells us a lot about politicians! They are still swayed by money and votes. The power of your community is in numbers – by increasing voter turnout in your municipal ward, you can make a stand and be heard.
“There is not a single aspect of daily life that isn’t affected by your government. The roads you drive on, the air you breathe, the water you drink, the food you eat, the schools that teach your children, and the parks you visit — are all a function of government.” CommonCause.org
Elections are one of the few times you have an opportunity to make an impact by choosing who is making the above decisions (and more) on your behalf. Remember that elected officials answer to you, not the other way around.
Don’t be a victim. Take an active role in the future of your community by voting.
“Someone struggled for your right to vote. Use it.” SB Anthony
How Do I Decide Who to Vote For?
Elections 2021 are municipal. In other words, you vote for the ward councillor who will represent your area at municipal meetings. Although the parties do come into play to an extent, the LGE is your chance to choose the person who will fight for your community.
If you can’t decide who should get your vote, read through the mandate of each party (available online). Pick your top three concerns and look for candidates who are aligned with those priorities.
What if There is No One I Want to Vote For?
If, despite all your mandate reading, you still don’t like any of the candidates – you are NOT off the hook! You still need to go to the ballots and spoil your vote.
It’s all maths:
- Say 100 people are eligible to vote at a particular voting station.
- Of those, 25 vote for A, 55 vote for B, and 20 just don’t bother to pitch.
- 25/80 = 31.25% and 55/80 =68.75%
- With these ratios, A gets a two-thirds majority () which means they can do what they like (in a manner of speaking).
- But, if the same group of voters all turned out and used a spoilt vote as a form of protest, then
- 25/100 = 25%, 55/100 = 55%, and 20/100 = 20%
- With these ratios, A still wins, but they have to tow the line and answer to the people.
To spoil your vote, you can leave the ballot paper blank or deface. (Don’t panic if you accidentally mess it up – you may ask for a fresh ballot paper and your old one will be set aside so as NOT to be counted.)
“Not voting is not a protest. It is a surrender.” K Ellison
Tip: Our next blog will walk you through the voting process.
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