Jehovah's Witnesses and The Vote

Robin Jackson

Following a series of tense negotiations and years of liberation struggle, the first democratic election was held in South Africa on the 27th April, 1994. This election changed the history of South Africa. It paved the way towards a new democratic dispensation and a new constitution for the country. For the first time all races in the country were going to the polls to vote for a government of their choice. Nineteen political parties participated and twenty-two million people voted. The election took place in a festive atmosphere, contrary to fears of political violence. Many Jehovah's Witnesses do not vote and stay neutral in political affairs. However, the requirement not to vote has varied over time. Although few Witnesses vote, since 1999 it is technically a conscience matter. This episode discusses the standpoint from the Watch Tower and how it has created a mess. Lives have also been lost due to the Watch Tower's commands. Music intro provided courtesy of Accelerated Ideas (www.accelerated-ideas.com). #JehovahsWitnesses #Vote #SouthAfrica