Feelings of anxiety, anger and hopelessness came to the fore as Grocott's Mail reporters listened to the stories being told to them at the Albany Lounge, in Albany Road.
Feelings of anxiety, anger and hopelessness came to the fore as Grocott's Mail reporters listened to the stories being told to them at the Albany Lounge, in Albany Road.
They had been sent to gauge community sentiment about the upcoming elections.
“With age, comes wisdom,” said reporter Lesedi Ntuli, relating her experience. “I spent time talking to a man who reminded me of the power and responsibility I have as an eligible voter in our country. He made me aware of the fact that if more young individuals do not vote, it may threaten the foundation of building a ‘better’ nation.”
Another reporter, Zanele Mukhari, was incredulous at finding out that majority of older people she spoke to believe that not voting for the current ruling party would result in a re-implementation of apartheid. She said that older people had a sense of loyalty to the same party and hoped that this same party would deliver all basic needs.
Younger people were more discreet about their preferred party, but were more open-minded in considering voting for differing parties.
Both young and older voters were united in their opinion that the current state of the government was dire.
One citizen said a lack of compassion, or love, is the problem among leaders in government. “Greed is the name of the game in politics, and those that claim to have the citizens’ best interests at heart are lying,” he said.
Ruwayne Douglas, 19, said, “I don’t believe my vote will make any difference. I’ve honestly given up hope in this country. All of this is just a waste of time.”
“I have registered but I have not decided if I will be voting. It irritates me that we only hear from these parties when it is election time. I mean, now everyone is advertising, making empty promises just so that they can get the votes,” said Marcel Van Eyssen, 26.
Christopher Veerasamy, 21, said, “I’m definitely not voting. It is pointless because what is the use of voting if my party does not win? It is clear that the ANC will win again. I’ve given up.”
