South Africa has seen a drastic decline in voter turnout since the nation’s first democratic election in 1994. Eligible voters are unaware of the power they hold in a democracy.
“A significant trend in the country is the steep decline in South African citizens who exercise their democratic right to vote,” explained Prof. Sethulego Matebesi, Head of the Department of Sociology at the University of the Free State.
“Since 1994, voter turnout has dropped by 21% from 86.7% to 66.1% in the 2019 National and Provincial Elections,” he explained.
According to Prof. Matebesi the trend of declining voter turnout was more notable during the 2021 municipal elections, which produced only a 45.9% voter turnout.
“This tells us that approximately a third of citizens do not vote in national and provincial elections and a shocking 54% in municipal elections,” he said.
“This voter turnout has been disturbingly low by international standards.” Several factors may lead citizens to the decision not to vote, including disillusionment with the current political situation, with a large percentage of eligible voters believing that their vote would not make a difference.
“Reports of rampant corruption in South Africa significantly affect service delivery, with little action being taken against perpetrators,” explained Prof. Matebesi.
“Too many citizens cannot tolerate the hatred, victimisation, and violence associated with politics, therefore marginalised communities that need more information about the importance of voting, may not see the need to vote.”
Voter turnout has a significant impact on the outcome of elections, as well as the representation of different groups within the government.
“A higher voter turnout from the diverse racial, cultural, and ethnic groups can result in an inclusive, and more representative government,” he said. “There are too many citizens that have not realised the amount of power they hold in a democratic country such as South Africa.
“When an active citizenry holds public representatives accountable, their collective voice can influence the development of policies and legislation on various issues,” continued Prof. Matebesi.
The professor believes that when citizens are engaged and feel their views are respected, they may feel a sense of civic duty or responsibility to participate in democratic processes such as voting.
“I believe a deliberate programme, emphasising the importance of participatory governance should target school learners. However, a concerted effort must also be made to demonstrate politicians’ willingness to advance citizens’ interests above petty intra and interpolitical party squabbles,” concluded Prof. Matebesi.
Warren Hawkins
