As South Africa prepares for what many are calling the most significant elections since 1994, several well-known personalities have voiced their commitment to voting. IOL News spoke with five prominent South African celebrities at Coca-Cola’s latest creation launch, Coca-Cola Wozzaah Zero Sugar, on their thoughts about the upcoming elections on May 29 and the importance of casting their ballots.
DJ Zinhle, a household name in the South African music industry, emphasised the critical role of voting in shaping the future. “It’s important to vote because citizens need to make choices that can influence their future,” she said. Reflecting on South Africa’s 30 years of democracy, Zinhle noted, “As a young person, I think it’s 30 years of being able to live my dreams.” She added that while 30 years is a significant milestone, real change requires more time, making it imperative for everyone to vote.
Fashion designer Rich Mnisi shared a similar sentiment, expressing his hopes for visible change post-elections and highlighting the pivotal role of youth in this transformation. “Thirty years of democracy is a signal of hope for me and it’s a signal of change and the youth coming in and changing everything that we’ve seen in our country,” Mnisi said. He believes that while previous generations laid the groundwork, it is now up to the youth to build on that foundation and drive the country forward.
Radio and TV presenter DJ Sabby also pledged to vote, stressing the power and meaning behind each ballot. He encouraged those who doubt the impact of their single vote to reconsider. “There’s so much power in voting, there’s so much meaning behind voting and the story for us to get to the point where we are even allowed to vote as black people means so much,” Sabby said. He emphasized the honour and privilege of voting, especially as a father looking to shape a better future for his children.
Lerato Kganyago, another prominent DJ and presenter, urged everyone to exercise their right to vote to help rectify past mistakes. She expressed hope that whichever party wins, they would keep their promises and implement significant changes, particularly in tackling unemployment. “It’s crucial for us to vote so we can be part of the change our country desperately needs,” Kganyago remarked.
Khayalethu Xaba, actor in Smokes and Mirrors will be voting for the first time and is eager for change. He hopes that the new government will address issues in the arts sector and improve conditions in disadvantaged communities. “A lot of artists are getting exploited; if the government would intervene, at least. I’d like to see a change in the hood where I’m from,” Xaba said, highlighting the need for better opportunities and access to information for all.
As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy, these celebrities’ commitments to voting underscore the importance of participation in shaping the nation’s future.
Actor Khayalethu Xaba will be voting on May 29 for the first time and he is hoping for change after the elections.
Video: Oluthando Keteyi#Elections2024 #KhayalethuXaba pic.twitter.com/QjG32ffiLb
— IOL Lifestyle (@IOL_Lifestyle) May 23, 2024Metro FM presenter and DJ Lerato Kganyago shares she will be voting and why it’s important for the youth to vote.
Video: Oluthando Keteyi#Elections2024 #DJLeratoKganyago #MetroFM pic.twitter.com/HdQwy9w00a
— IOL Lifestyle (@IOL_Lifestyle) May 23, 2024Metro FM presenter DJ Sabby will be voting and he shares his views on the importance of voting.
Video: Oluthando Keteyi#MetroFM #DJSaddy #Elections2024 pic.twitter.com/5ZHF4VJ6vT
— IOL Lifestyle (@IOL_Lifestyle) May 23, 2024Designer Rich Mnisi shares he will be voting next week and his hopes for after the elections.
Video: Oluthando Keteyi#Elections2024 #RichMnisi pic.twitter.com/wSgQrB61E4
— IOL Lifestyle (@IOL_Lifestyle) May 23, 2024DJ Zinhle shares she will voting next week and what 30 years of democracy means to her.
Video: Oluthando Keteyi#DjZinhle #Elections2024 pic.twitter.com/WZu5Owsqn8
— IOL Lifestyle (@IOL_Lifestyle) May 23, 2024
