Today we fulfil the requirements of the constitution that those that govern, public representatives who run municipalities, must be elected regularly, properly every 5 years. We must, however, be vigilant against the Covid 19 pandemic, continue to vaccinate, follow the required guidance to prevent spreading the virus. This election process ensures a democratic management of public affairs of the people unlike the sham practices of the past. When we each go to vote, whatever our status, we reinforce the principle of equality in key local decision making responsibility.
We congratulate those who have already voted using their special vote.
We know already the IEC officials have visited voters in their homes who could not travel to voting stations. We commend them for this crucial task in support of democracy. We must continue to insist that the constitution also requires that, in between these elections, elected councillors and appointed officials who support them must consult people regularly on matters that affect them. And, then when that happens properly regularly we ensure that both the representative and participatory requirements of the constitution are implemented. This is also why this work is given to a chapter nine institution, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), to manage. This body is one of the structures created to support democracy as required by the constitution. When we also turn out in our numbers to deepen this culture we consolidate a key responsibility to realise our vision of a nonracial, nonsexist, democratic and prosperous society.
We often, unintentionally, assume good intent, allow wrong practices to take root by our absence, not exercising a right given to us by the constitution as adults. Angry, disappointed as we maybe in certain respects, we must nevertheless exercise our right to vote. To visibly, practically show our preference for democratic decision making instead of allowing rule by a few improperly, inadequately mandated. To defend democracy, deepen it and literally advance it, is an act of deep revolutionary duty, for all of us.
Lechesa Tsenoli
Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly
1 November 2021