‘Your voice has the power to make a difference’: First-time voters looking forward to casting ballots

CAPE TOWN - Some first-time voters said they’re looking forward to casting their ballots on 29 May on election day.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) kicked off its School Democracy Programme in Cape Town as part of its annual voter education drive targeted at young people in schools across the country.

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Pupils at Bernardino Heights High School in Kraaifontein, Cape Town, had their turn on Friday.

Just under 5 million registered voters in 2024 are people between the ages of 18 and 29.

An 18-year-old pupil said he’s excited to have his voice heard.

"For me, voting is important because your voice has the power to make a difference in South Africa, and having our forefathers that fought for our freedom, and us, as the future, having a choice to vote can shape and make a difference in our country. So, for me, it is important to vote."

Another pupil said while she’s not eligible to vote yet, she said can't wait to take part in the future.

"As soon as I am registered to vote and I can vote, I really think that it's important that everyone votes so that everyone's voice can be heard. We all have been saying that it's a democratic society and our forefathers have fought for us all to be living in a democratic society. So, I think it is of utmost importance."