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X marks your vote
Word: Lungisa MnqwaziImages: Lungisa Mnqwazi
On 8 May, South Africans will cast their vote in the sixth national democratic elections. Several Big Issue vendors give us their take on this important political event.
NOMAKHOSINI SOLA, 60, is a mother of six kids who lives in Khayelitsha. She sells the magazine at Beach Road, Strandfontein.
Why will you be voting on 8 May?
I’m voting because I want to voice my opinion and ideas about the future. I want to be part of the event that is taking our country to the next level of service delivery. I am also voting to be a voice for my under-aged children who can’t cast their own votes yet.
JOSEPH KLINT, 67, is The Big Issue’s longest serving vendor. He lives in Bonteheuwel and sells the magazine in Hout Bay.
Why will you be voting on 8 May?
I’ll be voting for change and a better life for my kids. I want to fix the country by choosing a proper leader, someone who is going to take this country forward and help it progress.
NANCY NGXABAZI, 37, is married and has five children. She lives in Samora Machel and sells the publication along Dock Road at the V&A Waterfront.
Why will you be voting on 8 May?
I’m voting for a better life for me and my family. I’m voting for my kids to grow up in conducive conditions and have whatever they desire. Voting is my right, so I have to exercise it.
LWAZI MANIYO, 30, lives in Mfuleni and sells the magazine in Bright Street, Somerset West.
Why will you be voting on 8 May?
I’m voting for change in my life. I’m unemployed, so I hope that by voting I would stand a good chance of having better leadership that will create employment for every young person.
APHIWE SHUMI, 28, lives in Isiqalo, an informal settlement near Mitchell’s Plain. She sells the magazine along Dock Road, V&A Waterfront.
Why will you be voting on 8 May?
Voting means voicing my grievances and selecting a leader who I think is capable to lead. I don’t think there’s any person or party capable of leading the country; hence I’ve decided not to vote this year.
XOLANI KOMITHYOBOZA, 43, lives in Delft with his wife and five boys. He sells the magazine in Protea Road, Claremont.
Why will you be voting on 8 May?
In the old days we used to carry a pass even when going to the toilet. Voting is what set us free. I’m voting because that’s what I fought for, for many years.
