Don't sit this one out, Manamela tells young voters

Minister of Higher Education and Training Buti Manamela has called on students and young people across South Africa to go out and vote in today's 2026 Local Government Elections, warning them not to allow frustration and cynicism to convince them that their participation does not matter.

In a statement on Wednesday morning, Manamela said for many students, this election will be their first opportunity to exercise their democratic right, and they must embrace the responsibility that comes with it.

"For some students, these elections will be their first opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote. The Minister has encouraged them to embrace this responsibility and recognise the significance of a right that was secured through generations of struggle and sacrifice," the statement said.

Manamela said education should do more than prepare young people for jobs. It must equip them to think critically, understand their rights and responsibilities, and participate meaningfully in society.

He stressed that local government is the sphere closest to people's daily lives, and decisions taken by municipalities directly affect the communities where students live, study and work.

"You have the right to question. You have the right to disagree. You have the right to demand better. And you have the right to choose who you believe should represent you. But with these rights comes the responsibility to participate," Manamela said.

The minister's appeal comes at a time when youth voter turnout remains a growing concern for the Electoral Commission, with young voters historically among the least likely to cast a ballot despite making up a large share of the electorate.

Manamela directly challenged the apathy that has kept many young people away from voting stations in previous elections.

"The Minister urged students not to allow frustration, disappointment or cynicism to convince them that their participation does not matter," the statement read.

"Democracy is not sustained only by those who hold public office. It is sustained by citizens who participate in it. Young people are an important part of our society, and your experiences, aspirations and concerns matter and so does your participation."

He said young people's lived experiences – from service delivery failures, water and electricity cuts, potholes and housing backlogs, to the cost of transport and safety in student accommodation – are decided at municipal level. Staying away, he argued, means handing those decisions to others.

Manamela further urged students to verify where they are registered to vote and to cast their ballots at their designated voting stations. He called on all students to participate peacefully and to respect the choices of fellow South Africans.

"Let us demonstrate that the young people of South Africa are informed, engaged and prepared to play their part in strengthening our democracy," Manamela concluded.

His call echoes repeated warnings from the IEC and political leaders that low youth turnout weakens the legitimacy of local councils, particularly in metros and university towns where students make up a significant voting bloc.

With voting stations open from 07h00 to 21h00 on Wednesday, Manamela said today is not just about choosing ward councillors, but about young people claiming their place in shaping the future of their communities.