Moments to cherish and forget from the elections
ALEXANDRA - With the tense elections moments behind us, its time to reflect on its lighter side and some concerning aspects of the event.
With the 2014 elections results now common knowledge, some post poling moments are worthy reliving.
A majority of the million-plus first-time voters nationally are presumed to have thronged poling stations contrary to doomsayers’ predictions of their apathy towards this important national occasion. Those interviewed in Alexandra showed deep knowledge of the purpose of the elections and committed to continue voting in future.
Trevor Monyebodi (24) a first time voter at Three Square Sports Complex, 13th Avenue looked confident and victorious in his voting decision. “I waited long for this day and feel good that I voted for my future, and for a better country with freedom, peace and free education,” he said.
“We can see around us infrastructure development – housing, hospitals, clinics, schools and crèches. I am happy and hope my vote wins the election for my party so that these developments can continue.”
Lorraine Dumela (30) a second time voter at the same poling station supplemented her excitement with a ‘get on down’ dance. “I am excited for having affirmed my rights,” she said. “My vote makes my voice heard even at work, and will enable me to access business opportunities for my financial security without discrimination. It will also help others access bursaries for their education and better opportunities for employment.”
Tshepo Makhafula (16) and not yet eligible to vote, found himself in the middle of a row which contributed to the election-related violence, after bringing home an empty ballot box from his school which was one of the poling stations. “I got the box from a friend to use in making a chart for my school assignment and now I am made to look like a cheat, ” he lamented. “I am confused and worried how people will think of me, yet I am not even a voter or know anything about voting.” Makhafula’s aunt Nkone Mothiba was more circumspect on the matter accusing the Independent Electoral Commission for failing to safeguard its equipment. “Its unfair for the IEC to thrust my family into such serious problems,” she said as EFF and DA members gathered on the street next to her home unaware of Tshepo’s innocence.
“I am afraid of what people could do to us from such an innocent action of my nephew.”
Did you vote? What was your favourite election moment?
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