The community, different stakeholders including IEC representatives, political party agents and members of SAPS and church members from different denominations gathered for a collective prayer meeting at the Lutheran church in Dobsonville on 23 May 2024. The MC of the day Ntuthu Modisane who also requested that the national anthem be rendered, mentioned that the gathering was to reinforce the prayer for peace throughout the elections and that everything goes well without any unwanted eventualities that would hamper the elections process. The prayer points in the event were laid out as the atmosphere of prayer, hymns and dance ensued.
On the forefront of the event, was the DIA, Divine Intervention Approach organisation that comprises of joint pastors that work with and the police representing and praying for communities including prayer meetings held in the various police stations. The DIA members represent a collective cohesion of unity, and working synergies that bring about positive events such as the organised current elections one.
Pastor Tumelo Mangena mentioned that God is with his people when they come together in purpose, therefore it is an honour that we come together and say prayers together as a community. The purpose is to join hands and pray for peace in the administration of national elections. People from all walks of life made the assertion that we pray for the national elections.
Tsakane Mabunda from IEC, explained the election process, especially towards the elderly regarding the special votes who will be voting at home or safe places that they be careful when making a mark, not to spoil the ballot papers. She further highlighted that there were 3 ballot papers, the National, Regional and Provincial, as the independent candidates are the only new entries on the ballots. “The voting activities at voting stations are anticipated to be flawless.” She reiterated.
One of the prayer points was the call to pray for the children and youth to the challenges that they encounter especially the abuse of substances. Political parties were prayed for including party agents as they face the mammoth tasks of ensuring that the electioneering processes are free and fair. Further in the prayer coverage were the security clusters who will be on round the clock daunting tasks of keeping law and order during the elections period leading up to the actual voting stages. In conclusion, Colonel Moagi from the Dobsonville SAPS, accompanied by his SAPS colleagues, gave thanks and highlighted the importance of prayer in executing work and tasks each day.
Zonke Langa
Soweto Sunrise News
