YNews Elections Build-up | Tshwane residents cry out for visible change ahead of elections

Thrity-two years into democracy, some Tshwane residents say they are still thirsty for change – quite literally – with dry taps, electricity woes, crime and crumbling infrastructure leaving them questioning when the promises of a better life will finally reach their doorsteps.

With South Africa heading to the polls on 4 November for the Local Government Elections, residents say they are tired of waiting for basic services while political parties prepare to ask for their votes.

Approximately 29.9 million South Africans have registered with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to make their voices heard and elect political parties they believe can bring meaningful change to their lives.

In Mamelodi’s Ward 93, residents told YNews that the reality on the ground falls far short of the promises of democracy.

They say they have gone months without water and electricity, forcing some to resort to illegal electricity connections and alternative water sources to keep their households running.

Residents claim their requests for municipal assistance have largely fallen on deaf ears.

They are also calling for better access to medical facilities and recreational parks that would give young people safe spaces to gather, socialise and engage in constructive activities.

For Ward 93 resident, Doris Magopa, the fight for change also involves protecting young people from drug abuse. She is appealing to government to intervene and help steer children towards a safer future.

Meanwhile, some Atteridgeville residents have raised concerns about undocumented foreign nationals, alleging that some operate illegal businesses and sell drugs to young people. These claims have not been independently verified.

Some residents blame what they describe as government’s failure to secure the country’s porous borders, calling for the deployment of soldiers to strengthen border security.

With election day fast approaching, some residents say the African National Congress (ANC) could lose their support, arguing that political parties must demonstrate why they deserve to lead rather than simply campaign for another term in office.

In Atteridgeville’s Ward 68, residents are also raising concerns about gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), accusing authorities of failing to provide adequate assistance despite repeated calls for intervention.

Ward 68 Social Development Committee leader, Lucas “Coach” Mananyetso, says the community is supposed to receive support from political parties.

Instead, he says residents feel sidelined, accusing politicians of treating them like “voting cows”, sought after during election season, but seemingly forgotten when communities need help.

Mananyetso says ward committee members are left to fend for the community while the political parties expected to support them fail to provide the necessary assistance.

Mananyetso is also calling for resources to maintain the Saulsville Cemetery, alleging that poor upkeep has left the grounds vulnerable to criminal activity and vandalism.

He recalls a disturbing GBVF-related murder involving a young woman visiting the area from the Eastern Cape, who was allegedly raped and murdered before her body was dumped on a grave.

He also called for the reintroduction of the death penalty, arguing that it could deter violent crime.

Meanwhile, in Mamelodi West, residents say poor and sluggish service delivery is more than an inconvenience, it is a problem they believe is putting their lives at risk.

Crime statistics for April to June 2026 show a 10.4% increase in reported crime in Mamelodi East, with 1,449 cases recorded. In Mamelodi West, crimes detected as a result of police action rose by 35%.

Meanwhile, the Mamelodi police precinct recorded 280 drug-related crimes in the 2025/26 financial year.

The area continues to grapple with serious offences, including rape and other gender-based violence, aggravated and residential robberies, vehicle hijackings and trio crimes.

In Mamelodi West, crimes detected through police operations reportedly increased by 35%, while drug-related crime remains another concern in the township’s western areas, with close to 280 cases recorded annually.

Resident, Naledi Matlwa, says malfunctioning Apollo streetlights have left parts of the area in darkness, which she believes has contributed to rising violent crime.

She says residents have been asking the municipality for help for years, but their concerns have seemingly gone unanswered, leaving them frustrated and fearful.

“We have a big problem with apollos and potholes in our area. It’s been a year of us asking for help but we don’t get any help. Recently, we’ve been getting robbed in the street, people get murdered and get dumped in other people’s yards. As concerned Tshwane residents we ask that switch on the lights for us because every time we ask we are promised that they will come but in most cases they never do,” Matlwa said.

As election day approaches, Matlwa says she remains uncertain about whether to vote, questioning the point of repeatedly asking for assistance when conditions in the community continue to deteriorate.

🗳️ UNDERSTANDING THE VOTING PROCESS | LGE 2026

With Election Day coming on 4 November 2026, the IEC takes you through the voting process, showing you what to expect when you visit the voting station.

Being informed helps you prepare to vote with confidence.

#LGE2026 https://t.co/XY9cs4QWRk

— IEC South Africa (@IECSouthAfrica) October 29, 2026