Independent data analyst Michael O’Donovan predicts record-low voter turnout in the local government elections, with fewer than half of registered voters expected to participate. A total of 29 million South Africans are registered to vote in this week’s elections. In an opinion piece, he says choosing a party has become increasingly difficult as traditional voting patterns have shifted. Using Johannesburg as an example, O’Donovan argues that voters face difficult choices between service delivery, community participation and ethical leadership, potentially discouraging many from voting.
Independent data analyst warns of a low voter turnout in the elections