PRETORIA — Caiphus Rampe, a pensioner from Orchards Extension 21 in Arcasia, Pretoria North, expressed his excitement after casting his vote this afternoon, the last day for special votes.
According to South African Government News Agency, who applied for a special vote, casting his vote is significant as it contributes to preparing a better life for future generations. “I am old and I don’t have energy to queue with the young ones. I wanted to do it early and get done with voting,” Rampe said.
Reflecting on the 1994 elections, Rampe highlighted the importance of this year’s elections for deciding the future of all South Africans, regardless of race or color. “As South Africans, we are one and we should learn to live together. This is our country. We must work hard to build a better future for our children and the generations to come,” he said.
Echoing Rampe’s sentiments, Ditaelo Ranwedi from Orchards emphasized the importance of voting. “Voting is our voice to say what we want and how it must be done. By voting, we have the power to appoint our representatives in Parliament and in the municipalities to represent us and ensure that there is service delivery in our communities,” Ranwedi said. He urged young people and everyone else to vote.
Presiding Officer Karabo Mtshweni at the Wonderpark voting station reported that the station had 140 registered special votes, with 80% already cast. “The turnout yesterday was good compared to today. Today is very slow. We hope towards closing time, there will be more people coming,” Mtshweni said.
According to the Electoral Commission, an estimated 201,794 voting station visits for special votes were processed at 22,626 service points on the first day. A total of 624,593 voters will be visited by 62,000 officials from the Electoral Commission, accompanied by political party agents and observers where available.