WITH registration for the upcoming local government elections announced, the hype around political parties to attract new voters will soon move into overdrive. The electorate is focused on making ends meet. Real voting decisions that prompt people to vote in a particular manner are a matter of being politically savvy and having political consciousness. Citizens want to see tangible change in their communities that impacts positively on their standard of living. Bread and butter issues like clean water, electricity, flushing toilets, progressive infrastructure like roads and an efficient transport network are among the things people are asking for.
Education plays a pivotal role in analysing changes affecting the country. The media is fundamental in influencing attitudes towards political parties.
In areas where media is scarce or non-existent, voters can be coerced to vote for parties with promises attached.
However, an educated electorate weighs the pros and cons of policies and the implementation and success thereof.
The apartheid government’s education policies resulted in many voters having minimal education or being illiterate, leaving the electorate susceptible to manipulation.
The majority of the electorate nurtures hope of a better life. Every citizen looks forward to a growing economy that can reduce the unemployment rate. You have to go out and make your mark.
VIJAY SURUJPAL
Phoenix
