The year of 2024 marks three decades since the first democratic election in South Africa and the sixth national election. But over the last 30 years, there has been a sense of apathy around voting. Why? What is causing it?

According to BusinessTech, only 66.9% of eligible voters are registered to vote in the 2024 general elections. This reflects the general trend and is a notable decrease from the 2019 election of 74.5% registration and 80.5% in 2014.

After asking students to vote in a social media poll, some interesting data was observed. Of those who replied, 93% indicated that they are registered to vote, and 54% showed that this was not the first time that they are voting and that they have been politically active before. This is a positive start, as the under-30 age group is the least registered group.

Furthermore, one of the biggest contributors to voter apathy is the question of whom to vote for. All parties have their pros and cons. Looking at the relatively small sample of UP students, the majority seem to have an idea and understanding of politics and who they want to vote for.

There are many good reasons to vote (other than the day off). Firstly, because you can (assuming you are over 18 and a South African citizen). South Africa is home to all of us, and elections have consequences, so if you do not vote, you are giving up your voice and are allowing other people to make decisions on your behalf. Democracy only works when everyone participates, and voting allows for change.

Luckily, if you are not near the station you are registered at, you can still vote in the national elections but not in the provincial one. Just present your barcoded ID at the voting station you attend so that you can be checked off the voter’s roll. As the voter roll for this year’s election is closed, you cannot vote if you are not already on the roll. But after the general elections, you can register to partake in the next election on the IEC website, at your local IEC office or at the next registration weekend.

Voting is very important in the democratic process, as it ensures that the government is for the people, by the people, to represent the people. Voting is the cornerstone of expression and engagement; therefore, not voting prohibits true representation of how the people feel and undermines the ideals of democracy. While the national and provincial elections are important, all elections are significant, from municipal elections to the SRC elections, faculty elections, class rep elections, and more. It is vital for all to be involved to ensure the longevity of democracy.

Winston Churchill said, “No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.” With this in mind, it is essential to ensure that democracy survives and does not allow other forms of government to be attempted again. If you are registered to vote, go vote! Exercise your political rights and let your voice be heard. This is a pivotal moment in the history of South Africa, and we need to honour those who came before to get us to this democratic point.

Gabriella van Niekerk

Originally posted on the PDBY website: To vote or not to vote? Is that even a question?