The free event, open to registered voters only, will take place at The Nest in New Doornfontein on the night before the election.
Freedom Day is the day South Africans celebrate their country's democracy every year, but there's no better time to reflect on South Africa's democracy than the election.
“We Are The People” describes itself as an autonomous group formed to mobilize people to take part in democratic governance and elections.
The group is hosting a music festival celebrating the country's freedom and also providing a space for visitors to engage with one another about their civic duty to vote on Election Day.
“We wanted to combine the universal appeal of music and entertainment with an important message of democratic participation. By hosting the festival, we aim to attract a diverse audience, especially young people, and inspire them to be active participants in shaping the country's future,” he said. WE ARE THE PEOPLERondi Mntambo said Citizen.
The free festival, open only to registered voters, will take place at The Nest in Nieuw Doornfontein, Johannesburg, on the eve of the election.
Tickets for the festival are available on Quicket.
“Our goal is to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where participants can enjoy the festivities while critically discussing their civic obligations on May 29th,” Mntambo asserted.
Voter Education
The event will feature live music performances, voter education workshops and interactive exhibits. “We will provide comprehensive voter education through interactive booths and workshops hosted by our civil society partners,” Mntambo said.
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about South African democracy, independent candidates, the importance of voting, and their rights and responsibilities as voters.
There will also be sessions to help participants understand the electoral process and the importance of local elections. “Our aim is to equip participants with the knowledge they need to actively and effectively participate in our democracy,” she said.
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Being non-partisan
WE ARE THE PEOPLE It was established in January 2024 with the mission of mobilizing citizens for active participation in democracy.
Mntambo said the organisation has engaged with close to 100 communities through its flagship programme, People's Assembly.
“Our efforts have contributed to increased voter registration and improved civic awareness. Feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with many telling us they have gained a new understanding of their rights and responsibilities as citizens,” Muntambo said.
It was founded and is funded by South African individuals committed to democracy and civic participation.
Aware that South Africa's current political party funding landscape “unfairly favours wealthier parties, perpetuating a vicious cycle of inequality and preventing the emergence of viable alternatives”, We Are The People has provided funding to several parties taking part in this year's general elections.
“Although we have financially supported various political parties, the festival itself does not feature campaigning or endorsement of any particular political party,” Mntambo said.
She said the main focus was to create an environment where participants, regardless of their political affiliation, learned about the democratic process and were encouraged to participate.
“The focus will be on empowering the people rather than promoting a particular political party.”
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music
The list of performers includes iPhupho L'ka Biko, singer Wandile Mbambeni, DJ Justthemba and more.
Mntambo said the selected artists were chosen because of their ability to address social issues and inspire and motivate people through music.
“The artist selection was born out of our desire to feature performers who will resonate with a wide range of audiences and have a positive impact on the local community.”
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