By Mapaballo Borotho
- South Africans will head to the polls on 4 November 2026 for the local government elections.
- Kaya 959’s on-air personalities share why they will be exercising their constitutional right to vote.
- From accountability to having a say in local government, they explain what motivates them to participate.
South Africa is preparing for its 2026 local democratic elections that are set to take place in November.
While the country is faced with a myriad of issues, voting is every South African’s constitutional right, and many believe that this is the way to build towards a better future, not only for the coming generations but for the ones who are living as well.
Over 30 years ago, voting was only meant for certain demographics, and it remains one of the most important constitutional rights that every South African needs to practise.
With less than 60 days left before they go to the polls, here’s what the amazing Kaya 959 staff has to say about this important right.
Thabo ‘T-Bose’ Mokwele
Best T in the City presenter, Thabo ‘T-Bose’ Mokwele, says voting is one of the constitutional rights that are taken for granted on a daily basis.
“Maybe you are feeling disgruntled but if you are not voting, you are not participating. Your vote gives you the right to complain, especially when you are not well represented.”
T-Bose says it is every South African’s duty to practise their constitutional right. He says voting is the only invitation to the room that makes decisions for your country.
“You cannot say you are not voting because you are not represented or because the government is not delivering, then change your vote.”
Gladys Mutele
Meanwhile, our intelligent News Reporter, Gladys Mutele, says she votes because she wants to have a say in who gets to shape the place she calls home.
“I vote because, for me, local government elections are even more impactful than national elections. This is where politics filters down into our own personal experiences… the water we drink, the roads we use, the services we receive, and the communities we pray to raise our children in.”
Andy Maqondwana
And the lady who’s always feeling good, Andy Maqondwana, Feel Good presenter, says:
“I vote because it is my constitutional right and it is a privilege, hence I exercise that every chance I get because, at the end of the day, if nothing changes and no one does anything, I have myself to blame for not exercising the right and the privilege that was hardly fought for.”
Juliet Joseph
The lady who keeps you safe on the road, Kaya 959’s traffic and news reporter Juliet Joseph, says not participating in the elections is the same as giving up an opportunity to influence the outcome of the world that she lives in.
“I vote because democracy is about participation and accountability. If I choose not to vote, I’m still affected by the decisions others make.
I may not be casting a vote for a particular candidate, but I’m giving up my opportunity to influence the outcome and I still have to live with the consequences.”
South Africans head to the polls on 4 November 2026. The day has officially been declared a public holiday, with special votes taking place two days prior.
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