African Transformation Movement (ATM) president Caesar Nongqunga became the first voter to cast his ballot at his home village in Ngqeleni on Monday as special voting got under way ahead of the November 4 local government elections. Nongqunga voted at the SB Ngcobo voting district in Luxolweni village, within the Nzwakazi administrative area. The station, in Ward 21 of Nyandeni Local Municipality, has 482 registered voters and is one of nine voting stations in the ward.
Nongqunga said he had always voted at the station, as his home was in Powlini, also in Nzwakazi. He emphasized the importance of leaders being exemplary and visible to the people they lead, especially where they come from. The ATM leader's decision to vote at his home village was seen as an inspiration to his fellow villagers. Nongqunga expressed his enthusiasm for voting in rural areas, stating that this was where real democracy lived.
On the occasion of casting his special vote, Nongqunga urged South Africans to turn out in large numbers on November 4, the official election day. He encouraged voters to make their voices heard, emphasizing that their vote was their voice. Nongqunga stressed that voting was not only a personal responsibility but also a contribution to the nation. He encouraged voters to come in numbers and vote for change, service delivery, jobs, and clean governance.
Nongqunga revealed that he would not visit any voting stations on Wednesday, choosing instead to remain at home and pray for peaceful elections. He expressed his hope for peaceful elections, tolerance, and the will of the people to prevail. Having cast his special vote, Nongqunga said he would leave the outcome in the hands of God and the people.
Nyandeni Local Municipality, under OR Tambo District Municipality, has 32 wards and 64 council seats. A record 547 political parties are contesting the 2026 local government elections nationally, with more than 15 parties contesting in Nyandeni. In Ward 21, where Nongqunga voted, at least five parties are contesting across its nine voting districts.
Outside the SB Ngcobo voting station, a rare display of political tolerance was observed, with ATM and ANC campaign tables set up side by side. Both parties' agents expressed their commitment to peaceful and respectful coexistence, despite their differences. Villagers also echoed the message of unity, stating that they lived peacefully and would remain united despite their different political choices.
The special voting process is part of the larger effort to ensure that all eligible voters have a chance to cast their ballots. With the official election day approaching, voters are being encouraged to exercise their right to vote. The Electoral Commission of SA is working to ensure a smooth and peaceful voting process across the country.
Key points
- Caesar Nongqunga, ATM president, casts special vote at home village in Ngqeleni.
- Nongqunga urges South Africans to turn out in large numbers on November 4 to vote.
- A rare display of political tolerance is observed at the SB Ngcobo voting station, with ATM and ANC campaign tables set up side by side.
