University of the Free State political analyst Sethulego Matebesi said communities cannot ignore the serious challenges facing the country. They should not respond by abandoning their responsibility to participate in elections.

His comments come as some residents have expressed growing reluctance to vote ahead of the November local government elections, citing high unemployment, municipal failures to deliver basic services, poor leadership, corruption and cadre deployment.

The ruling party has faced growing backlash ahead of the local government elections, with political disillusionment leaving some communities questioning whether their votes can bring about meaningful change. 

Speaking to Newz Room Afrika, Matebesi encouraged citizens to use their voting rights wisely rather than disengaging from the democratic process.

“Yes, we might be hopeless, but there are one or two candidates we can vouch for. It’s a difficult situation because one of the things that came out, is the issue of education. 

“We have seen many times how the Independent Electoral Commission is trying to breach that gap between political parties, this whole notion of not having trust but also bringing in voter education to encourage South Africans to vote despite this whole huge problem of trust.”

Matebesi said voter education remains important in rebuilding confidence in the electoral process, particularly at a time when political parties are struggling to convince communities that their participation can lead to change. 

He also criticised the failure of established political parties, including the ANC and EFF, to announce their mayoral candidates and lists in good time. Parties that have existed for decades should have established systems to prepare their candidates well ahead of each election.

He described the culture of missed deadlines and disregard for time as a broader societal problem, saying it extends beyond political parties and is also evident at government and municipal events. The normalisation of non-compliance by officials could influence younger generations to adopt the same attitude towards deadlines, punctuality and accountability.

He also questioned the growing reliance on popularity when political parties select candidates for public office. Being a recognisable public figure does not automatically make an individual suitable for political leadership. Matebesi reflected on the growing trend of popular personalities, including journalists and media figures, entering politics and becoming candidates for political parties.

He argued that political parties should place greater emphasis on leadership ability, competence, and public-service credentials rather than simply relying on an individual’s popularity.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm

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