Battle of the Ballots: Young writers contemplate their decision to vote

The current socioeconomic crisis will arguably be the most important factor in the 2024 elections and will likely have major implications in shaping our country's political future. With constant loading shedding and a high unemployment rate, it is no surprise that many voters have lost hope.

Voter turnout over the years has shown a worrying decline in participation, generally across the board. However, the decline is exceptionally high among the youth. This cohort is most affected by the current situation but also the most influential in bringing about change. You would expect this group would want to make their mark.

Analysts and political parties have their own theories about voter apathy among young South Africans. But this youth day, we decided to go to the source and ask young readers if they plan to participate in next year’s milestone election and why.

'I have a vested interest in shaping our country's future'

UKZN student Andiswa Makhanya writes that she is voting in 2024 as she does not want to sit idly by and watch decisions that may not align with her beliefs being made without any input from her.

I want to put the Mafia grannies and mkhulus out of power

A News24 reader who asked to be anonymous writes that they are tired of a corrupt, unaccountable, incoherent ANC that's been governing since 1994. He writes that he plans to vote in 2024 to 'put those Mafia grannies and mkhulus out of power'.

Azania is on her knees

This is not the future the great Chris Hani, Solomon Mahlangu and Steve Biko had hoped for us. They did not sacrifice their lives so our liberators could feast while we struggle in poverty, writes Yolanda Marenene.

Let's choose leaders that embody progress

A News24 reader who asked to remain anonymous writes that they are deeply motivated to vote in the next election out of concern for their younger brother's future. They yearn for him to experience a different reality, which is free from the hardships they encountered.

It is evident that change is urgently needed

Besides high unemployment, the issue of continuous load shedding are among the reasons why Tebogo Sehume has decided to vote in 2024.

I have the privilege to vote, which is why I am using it

Challenges facing the country, such as load shedding, a lack of service delivery, unemployment and corruption, significantly impact the youth. Genevieve Labuschagne writes that this leads to apathy among the youth about voting. She, however, has decided to make her mark.

2024 is indeed our 1994

In just under a year, South Africa will hold its general elections. As more parties emerge, questions have been raised about whether it is worth voting. However, despite the uncertainty or because of it, Malaika Ditabo has resolved that she will be making her mark come 2024.