As South Africa heads to the polls, the country finds itself at a critical juncture. High unemployment rates, violent crime, and the deplorable treatment of women, children, and the disenfranchised are some of the pressing issues at stake. The revelations made at the Madlanga Commission and the normalization of what Lephakga describes as the "political economy of inefficiency" further complicate the situation. This economy is characterized by deliberate failure, disguise of implementation, and dysfunctional systems that benefit specific networks.
Lephakga, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Philosophy, Practical and Systematic Theology at Unisa, argues that politics has become synonymous with lies, corruption, and dysfunctionality. He calls for the cleansing of politics, emphasizing that it should be about serving the people, securing their well-being, and bringing hope through actions. In a democratic country, this cleansing can be achieved by taking power into one's hands and voting wisely. According to Lephakga, people should vote to avoid being led by dishonorable, bad, and clueless leaders.
The idea that voting is essential to prevent bad leaders from taking power is not new. It was first argued by the Greek philosopher Plato, who believed that if people refuse to choose their government or give a mandate to desirable leaders, those with bad intentions will form a government and act as they please. In modern times, some argue that people vote to influence or change the outcome of an election, while others do so for personal benefits, whether social or economic.
However, voting also comes with an opportunity cost, as it requires time and effort that could be spent on other valuable activities. To vote, one must register, gather information about preferred parties and candidates, and evaluate that information. Economically, voters must consider the expected utility of the outcome of voting, asking themselves, "What do I get in return?" Lephakga argues that the answer lies in taking power back and voting for people who prioritize the affairs of the people, specifically service delivery.
Lephakga also highlights that voting is a legal right-duty, given the sacrifices made by those who fought for democracy in South Africa. Historically, the majority of people in the country were not allowed to vote, and the system made them invisible. However, this argument is challenged by the harsh material conditions faced by many people, which push them to respond with apathy, saying, "We were slaves, but at least we ate." This response is characteristic of defeated people who have learned to survive but have had their identity crushed.
The material conditions on the ground, including poverty and lack of access to basic services, force some people to yearn for the past, when, despite oppression, institutions functioned, and there were jobs. This sentiment leads some to question the need to vote, as they feel they have nothing to protect. Lephakga counters that voting is a moral duty, a political duty, an economic obligation, and a philosophical imperative, as it can make government better or worse, ultimately affecting people's lives.
Ultimately, Lephakga's argument is that voting is crucial in shaping South Africa's future. By making informed choices at the polls, citizens can hold leaders accountable and push for a government that is responsive to their needs. As the country prepares for elections, it is essential for citizens to consider the significance of their vote and the impact it can have on their lives and the lives of future generations.
Key points
- - Voting is crucial in shaping South Africa's future and cleansing politics of corruption and inefficiency. - The country's current challenges, including high unemployment rates and violent crime, make voting a critical tool for change. - Voting is a moral duty, a political duty, an economic obligation, and a philosophical imperative that can make government better or worse.
