Marikana - Marikana residents in the North West came out in their numbers to the Rakgatla High School voting station in Wonderkop on Wednesday.
The area which has become of political significance since the killing of 44 people mostly by police in 2012, was buzzing on Wednesday morning.
Voters, many of them from the Nkaneng settlement near the Koppie where mineworkers were shot and killed, spoke of their excitement in exercising their democratic right by voting.
One such resident was Zet Molotya, who had waited for the voting station to open from 6am.
Molotya said residents of Marikana were out in full force to ensure they voted for the EFF which he said has been with them all along.
“Here in Marikana you don't ask who we are voting for because it is obvious. Julius Malema has fought our battle and now it is the time to also take him forward in politics,” he said.
“EFF is a winner here already. There is no other party that matter to our lives. “
Another resident Daniel Mbambo said it was one of his most exciting days in his life.
“I'm excited because I will now decide the future of my municipality. My vote will determine who becomes the next ruler for the five year coming. I have voted before and I have been disappointed but now I have renewed hope.”
Several other voting stations around Marikana saw a sizeable number of people queuing outside before opening. Most voters braved the morning cold and huddled together at the venues.
Elections Bureau