I have voted in five national elections, and at each stage of my life different priorities influenced the decision I made.
It is no different this time around. The political climate and dynamics have shifted considerably.
The electorate is unanimous about one thing – they are sick and tired of empty promises.
Sloganeering has been exhausted, and while blind party loyalty may previously have been relied upon to keep votes, times are changing.
One suspects the loyalty vote will not be the trump card it used to be come 8 May.
The old drill of party manifestos and glorious speeches have also waned.
It is clear that charismatic cheap talk has been found wanting.
Disillusionment over the state of the country and the mix of political parties to choose from – and this includes opposition sniping while offering little that’s different – has resulted in scores of Zululanders indicating that they will go the ‘no vote’ or ‘spoilt ballot’ route.
While apathetic voters should have their voices heard and be given a platform to express their dissatisfaction, a ‘no vote’ does nothing to improve the state of the country.
As a mother of two, the future of my children is paramount. Every decision we make as parents is based on our children.
It is therefore interesting to note the assertions of Media Monitoring Africa, who believe that millions of children, who are too young to vote, have been ‘forgotten in this election’.
‘South Africa’s political parties have largely glossed over children’s issues in their election manifestos,’ said Director of Media Monitoring Africa, William Bird.
‘Yet 37% of our population is under the age of 18, and the consequences of our policies on children will be felt for many decades to come. We only vote on one day, but our choice as adults will impact our children for years.
‘As we celebrate 20 years of democracy, it is critical that we build our country for our children and make responsible choices for them,’ said Bird.
Yes, I will make my mark on election day, but as a mother I will vote for the future of my children.
A no vote in my mind is a selfish choice, and the irony of a no show is that it strengthens the very parties the ‘objection’ is aimed at.
According to the Independent Electoral Commission, there were 251 960 spoilt votes in 2015, which would have equated to between five and six seats in Parliament.
A ‘no vote’ essentially bolsters the majority party in each province, offering little help to opposition parties.
In a multi-party democracy, there is freedom in your vote.
If you are unhappy with a certain political party, simply vote for another party. A misplaced or no vote simply has no merit.
Make the smart choice on Election Day. Vote for our children.
