Next week is Freedom Day, which will mark the 25th anniversary of the first democratic elections in the country. Tshiamo Mokatsane spoke to youth on the street to hear what their views are on freedom, a quarter-century of democracy and the upcoming elections.
Phindiwe Maka, 22, of Khayelitsha, says Freedom Day is significant because “it’s a reminder of how far South Africa has come as a nation post 1994”. However, she will not be voting as she feels none of the political parties are “worthy” of her vote.
Levy Barends, 18, of Mitchells Plain says Freedom Day, April 27, means him being able to do what people could not do 25 years ago and he will be exercising his basic right to vote as he wants to be part of those who want to bring change to South Africa.
Duncan Groenewald, 21, of Milnerton, says Freedom Day means having the right to speak your mind, and he feels that while we do have freedom of expression, we should consider the next persons feelings. He will be voting because the economy is weakening, and he trusts his vote can make it better.
Simnikiwe Ngxaga, 21, of Blue Downs, says Freedom Day means being able to associate with people of different backgrounds, ethnicities and races. She will be voting because there are officials who dont deserve the power they have at hand.
Nhlanhla Majola, 22, of Kimberley, says Freedom Day means progression and a breaking down of a wall of inequality.
However, there has been a slackening from the governments side with regards to productivity. Nhlanhla says he is more interested in the local election because he has no confidence in any of the current political parties.
Sesethu Nomngqokwana, 21, of Kraaifontein, says Freedom Day represents the struggle generations before endured and ensures that our struggle heroes are celebrated. She will not be voting because she feels there is no party that she trusts or deserves her vote.
Silungile Dliso, 22, of Philippi, says Freedom Day means having the opportunity to be a better citizen. To her, this means “encouraging people to exercise their basic rights, but by also not forgetting their responsibilities.” She will be voting as she feels her vote is her voice and she wants to help vote the current party out of power.