MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS

KNYSNA NEWS – For 43-year-old Khuthala Mbewu, voting in the upcoming municipal elections is not simply a right but an opportunity to demand better from those entrusted with running the town.

“Yes, I would love to vote, and I will,” Mbewu said when asked by Knysna & Plett Herald senior journalist Hugo Redelinghuys whether she intended to cast her ballot in the elections.

Mbewu said ordinary people had seen too little meaningful change over the years, despite repeated promises from politicians.

“Ordinary people don’t see any meaningful changes, and by voting for the right party, we can change that,” she said.

She believes service delivery in Knysna has deteriorated, with communities continuing to face challenges that affect their daily lives. For her, the need for improvement is evident in the demand for adequate housing, employment opportunities and reliable municipal services.

“We really deserve better, and that’s why it is important to bring out your vote. If you abstain, it’s no use complaining afterwards,” she said.

Mbewu also raised concerns about the growth of informal settlements, arguing that residents need access to proper housing and greater economic opportunities.

“There are informal settlements springing up, and we need proper housing, more jobs and decent service delivery everywhere,” she said.

Her message reflects a concern that is likely to feature prominently in the run-up to the municipal elections: residents want to see tangible improvements in their communities, not simply hear promises during election campaigns.

For Mbewu, participating in the electoral process is one way ordinary residents can make their voices heard and help influence the direction of local government.

Her call is clear: voters should use their ballots to demand accountability and work towards the changes they want to see in Knysna.

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