KNYSNA NEWS - As residents headed to the polls, these voters shared their experiences with the voting process and their hopes for the municipality's future.

While the atmosphere at the voting stations was described as calm and organised, a common sentiment among those interviewed was the desire for meaningful change, accountable leadership and elected representatives who put the interests of the greater Knysna community first.

First-time voter Kimberleigh Kayster said the atmosphere leading up to the elections had been peaceful and that the calm continued at the Hornlee voting station, despite the visible presence of various political parties outside voting venues.

She said her decision to vote was influenced by the community work her mother had been involved in, long before she decided to become a political candidate. "I just hope voters made wise decisions based on real change and not only on promises made in the moment. I also hope that whoever wins a ward or takes over the municipality will keep their word and improve the standard of governance in Knysna, particularly regarding service delivery and infrastructure," she said.

Kayster added that she was confident she had made the right choice, believing her vote was cast in the best interests of the community.

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