Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
10 May 2024 | 07:45 p.m. SAST
2-minute read

Image: SA People News

In a bid to foster informed participation in South Africa’s democratic process, Radio Islam International, in collaboration with the Auwal Socioeconomic Research Institute (ASRI) participated in a discussion to examine the importance of voting and engagement in South Africa’s upcoming elections.

The discussion covered the prevalent challenges facing the nation while advocating for active involvement in the upcoming elections.

“As believers, our religion reminds us that with the help of the Almighty, with sincerity, with courage, with determination strategy, unity of purpose we have in the past overcome far worse. We can overcome the challenges now, and we will overcome whatever challenges there are in the future,” Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat said during the introduction.

Despite the many challenges facing the country – or perhaps because of them – including corruption, service delivery issues, and disillusionment among voters, it is imperative that citizens remain engaged and approach voting with a sense of responsibility.

South Africa’s three decades of democracy is juxtaposed against the persistent challenges of corruption, deteriorating infrastructure, and disillusionment among citizens.

Emphasising the importance of not succumbing to apathy, speakers urged listeners to view voting as a fundamental civic duty and a means to effect positive change.

An interactive session ensued, facilitated political commentator Nomboniso Gasa, journalist Qaanitah Hunter, researcher Ebrahim Fakir and research director at ASRI, Angelo Fick.

Of notable focus was the recent electoral reform introducing independent candidates and the use of three separate ballots for national and provincial elections.

Experts provided clarity on navigating these changes, ensuring voters understood their options and responsibilities.

It was emphasised that voting is a personal, individual choice.

Hunter underscores the importance of basing voting decisions on personal priorities.

“The way I look at it is to create a funnel, and it’s almost like an inverted pyramid of your personal deal breakers. So [list] your non negotiables from the most important to the least important, and I would limit it to under 10,” Hunter said.

Throughout the program, a recurring theme emerged: the need for active citizenry beyond the polling booth.

Speakers urged listeners to hold elected representatives accountable and actively engage in shaping the country’s future through ongoing dialogue and participation.

The importance of informed decision-making was emphasised, encouraging voters to consider the policies, visions, and track records of political parties and candidates.

Watch the full program here.