Expectations high for next government
ALEXANDRA - The community here has high expectations from incoming government soon after the elections on 7 May.
A SNAP survey of Alexandra residents prior the national elections reveals their hopes.
Benedict Moloko (25) a petrol station attendant who has never voted and couldn’t find time to register this time said, “I am glad black people can vote but I am unhappy with rampant corruption in government.
“Public servants should be committed, accountable and not be amassing wealth for their families like now.”
Lepati Samuel Mohlabegoane (65), a retired school principal said, “I voted in all polls and will do so again in May to influence what government should and not do.
“Although the current government has provided many services like education, a lot needs to be done to ensure quality and equitable access to all schools, housing and health. The current successes are however overshadowed by a lack of commitment.”
“My vote will be based on government’s commitment to root out corruption. They should use… seasoned professors to strengthen government’s capacity and improve its image.”Sydney Mathebula (36), a traditional healer voted in three national elections. He said, “I know many people will vote, and we are concerned with slow service delivery and tenderpreneurs who front as government employees. They steal public money meant for improving the lives of the poor.
“I will vote for a government which will enforce strong anti-corruption laws to stop even foreign criminals who have made South Africa a criminal hub, and one which will create meaningful jobs… for youth who are resorting to crime for survival.”
Gezani Mabunda (48) a health centre employee who voted in all elections and will do so again said, “We have many challenges at local level. I am concerned by public representatives who openly defy us and refuse to attend to our problems.
“There is a lot of corruption and cheating in the allocation of houses. I will vote for a people-centred government which will deal with this problem.”
Sedge Malatji (31), a street barber voted in the last elections and will vote again said,” Things are going well but we have challenges with Metro police who chase us and take away the wares we use to improve our lives.”
Unemployed Arthur Chabela (39) said, “I am Mozambiquan and have an ID and but can’t vote even though I have worked hard for many years contributing to the country’s economy. For me the main challenge is lack of jobs.”
