Don’t underestimate the power of the electorate

In the year preceding an election, several scenarios habitually play out to the detriment of the electorate. The 2019 general election is no exception and political parties are already jumping on the bandwagon to score political points, gain voter ground and canvass for or eliminate candidates. The political killings in the province, which have regrettably occurred in the run-up to past elections, are a huge red flag this time around. It sets the tone for a fierce and selfish battle for power. Against this backdrop and the visible rift in other ANC branches countrywide, there was a sigh of relief witnessing a smooth elective conference in the Musa Dladla region last weekend. There were no surprises when it came to the leadership of the region as it was long anticipated that Mdu Mhlongo would be the favoured candidate. The composition of the top five including former first lady of the province and former King Cetshwayo Mayor Thembeka Mchunu showed that all strings of the ANC within the region united to ensure the ruling party again garners the majority vote in the district. But with all political parties now channelling their energies towards winning more territory in the upcoming polls, we find the voter being placed at the bottom of the priority chain. When electioneering kicks in at full throttle, service delivery takes a back seat and council resolutions are delayed to accommodate big guns in the area who are vigorously spearheading campaigns. Municipal officials spend hours doing party political work at the expense of the taxpayer. The highly controversial land issue is being played as the major trump card of this election. It is at the centre of core alliances, breakups, violence, fear and unrest. It is also a strategic game changer and could split the opposition wide open and work to the ruling party’s advantage. Whatever the outcome, don’t forget about the needs of the voters. Service delivery is key and that should be the core objective of every party. Failure to deliver to the masses has already spurred on violent protest action countrywide. So, as parties intensify campaigning, it’s not about winning another election, it’s about delivering and getting it done right the first time around. Political infighting only erodes the party further. As seen in the Western Cape, North West, Eastern Cape and Free State provinces, power hustling at the top stalls crucial capital projects and service delivery in local municipalities. Service delivery guarantees victory. Deliver now. The voters are tired of politicians not following through on their promises. Do not underestimate the power of the electorate.