Election day boeries, politics, queues and R5 pees
Election day in Ekurhuleni had it all. R5 for a pee, boeries, political dance-offs and kilometre-long queues. Democracy was anything but dull.
On an election day that bore no resemblance to the usual humdrum spectacle, the East Rand witnessed a colourful and lively turnout. Polling stations in Reiger Park, Boksburg transformed into street parties, with political parties throwing impromptu dance competitions, residents decorating their property with party colours, and entrepreneurs capitalising on the occasion.
Long or short queues, voters patiently made their way to cast their ballots, while entrepreneurs lined the streets, selling coffee, baked goods, and takeaway meals to those waiting to vote.
Some enterprising residents even charged R5 for access to their household toilets, a lucrative enterprise in the heat of the day. Others promoted their own products and multilevel marketing schemes, while estate agents distributed property flyers to captive audiences. Despite the heat, voters appeared prepared, opting for shorts, T-shirts, and comfortable shoes, reflecting a more relaxed and casual atmosphere than one might expect for such an important day.
However, not every polling station was a party. Some activists baked in the sun, while others found themselves without necessary equipment. In Kempton Park, ANC and EFF comrades worked together, with the reds taking five hours to set up their gazebo. At least, one polling station managed to raise funds for a good cause, with the Rotary Club of Boksburg braaing and selling boeries. Amidst the chaos, the day served as a reminder of the determination of voters to exercise their democratic rights, despite the challenges.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
