Why many northern areas residents opted not to vote

Though voting stations in Gqeberha’s northern areas experienced heavy foot traffic on Wednesday, some people took an unexpected approach to the national and provincial elections — staying away.

Instead of heading to the polls, they decided to enjoy the public holiday.

Asked why they had chosen to opt out, many people said there was nothing worth voting for, and believed their participation would be futile.

Gelvan Park resident Brent de la Harpe, 43, said the sheer number of small parties participating in the election was overwhelming.

“It’s supposed to be a sign of a healthy democracy, but in reality it feels more like a muddle of options that complicate decision-making,” he said.

“Each party comes with its own promises and agendas, making it difficult to discern which ones genuinely align with my values, and which are simply trying to garner attention with catchy slogans and empty promises.”

Another Gelvan Park resident, Norman Oh Fond, 49, echoed these views.

“The proliferation of small parties can dilute the vote,” he said.

“Instead of a few strong parties representing clear, distinct policies, the vote gets fragmented among many minor players.

“This fragmentation can weaken the overall impact of my vote.

“It raises concerns about whether the party I choose will even have a significant voice in the larger political landscape.

“Another issue is that with so many parties, it’s challenging to keep track of their promises.”

Gelvandale resident Angus Honest, 37, said voting would not bring about change.

“I’ve been around long enough to see promises come and go, but little change in our neck of the woods,” Honest said.

“Voting feels like shouting into the wind. You can make a noise, but who’s really listening?

“Until politicians start addressing the real issues we face every day, I’ll save my energy for something that actually makes a difference.”

Helenvale resident Neill Baartman said he spent the day shopping.

“I figured I’d skip the whole circus this time,” he said.

“Why waste a perfectly good day queuing up to cast a ballot when I could be out enjoying some quality time with the wife?

“I voted once in my life and never again.

“I don’t trust anyone. An electricity pole in my street is still broken, no-one bothered to fix it and it’s been months now,” Baartman said.

“Later today I’ll be practising rugby; I’m not voting.”

Gelvandale resident Riyaadh Grobbelaar, 27, believed there was simply no point in voting.

“It’s the same old faces and the same old promises. It’s a cycle that never ends,” Grobbelaar said.

“Instead I spent my day doing something productive ... at least that way I know I’ll accomplish something.”

Laaiqah Ontong, 31, of Gelvandale, said politicians made empty promises.

“Politicians come around every election cycle, promising the moon and the stars, but what do we really get?

“I’m not about to waste my time and energy on a bunch of hot air.

“They talk a big game about change and progress, but when push comes to shove, it’s the same old song and dance.

“Meanwhile, we’re left to pick up the pieces, wondering what happened to all those grand plans they had.”

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