Opinion | Local Government Elections: Your vote still matters
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The views expressed in this opinion article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of SABC News.
by Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa
In 1994, as South Africans stood in long queues across the country to cast their first democratic vote, they did more than make history; they became the architects of a new nation.
They understood that they were not merely casting votes; they were laying the foundations for a free and democratic South Africa that future generations would inherit.
That vote mattered because it marked a turning point. Millions who had been excluded, silenced and oppressed under apartheid were finally recognised as equal citizens, with both a voice and a choice.
For many, standing in those lines was not only about electing a government but also about reclaiming dignity, freedom and hope. It was a moment of unity and national renewal, where South Africans chose democracy over division and peace over conflict.
Today, the question we must ask ourselves is this:
Are we preserving and honouring that hard-won right?
Yet, in today’s South Africa, it is easy to underestimate the value of this right. Before 1994, the majority of South Africans were denied the vote. Many endured imprisonment, torture, and even lost their lives in the struggle for this fundamental freedom.
Remembering that sacrifice is essential. It reminds us that the right to vote is neither automatic nor guaranteed; it was earned through struggle and sacrifice.
In 2026, every eligible South African will have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. All that is required is registration and the simple act of voting.
Every South African who is eligible to vote should do so.
Our journey towards a better and more just society is not yet complete. While much progress has been made, significant challenges remain — particularly within our communities, where inequality, poverty and unemployment are most deeply felt.
This is precisely why local government elections matter.
They are not distant or abstract events. They directly affect daily life. Through them, citizens influence how municipalities are governed and how services are delivered.
Local government decisions shape: the reliability of water and electricity; the condition of roads and infrastructure; the quality of sanitation and refuse removal; and the safety and well-being of communities.
At their core, local government elections are about accountability and responsiveness. At a time when many citizens express frustration, it is important to remember:
Real change requires participation.
Raising concerns on social platforms or through protest is not sufficient on its own. Meaningful and lasting change is achieved when citizens take part in the democratic process.
Choosing not to vote is, in effect, choosing not to be heard. It allows others to decide who governs your community and how decisions affecting your daily life are made.
As former President Nelson Mandela reminded us:
“Sometimes it falls upon a generation to be great. You can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.”
Similarly, the former first Minister of Home Affairs in the new Democratic Dispensation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, emphasised the responsibility that accompanies democratic rights:
“Democracy is not sustained by government alone, but by the active participation and commitment of its citizens.”
The future of our towns, cities and neighbourhoods depends on active citizens.
When citizens participate: accountability is strengthened; governance improves; and service delivery becomes more responsive.
When participation declines: accountability weakens; leadership becomes less responsive; and communities are left without a clear voice.
As South Africa marks 30 years of its Constitution, the importance of voting, particularly in local government elections, becomes even clearer.
The Constitution sets out a vision for local government that is: accountable; developmental; inclusive; and responsive to the needs of communities.
But this vision can only be realised if citizens actively participate in the democratic process.
Your vote matters not only for today but also for the future.
It is how you shape your community, protect your rights, and contribute to the ongoing project of building a better South Africa.
When you vote, you strengthen democracy. When you do not vote, you surrender your voice.
As Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi reminded us: “The strength of our democracy depends on the willingness of citizens to participate, to hold leaders accountable, and to take responsibility for the future of their communities.”
The responsibility rests with all of us.
Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa is the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
