Note to editors: Please find attached English and Sotho soundbites by Jafta Mokoena MPL and Afrikaans by Dr Roy Jankielsohn MPL
Please see pictures here, here, here and here
The DA in the Free State welcomes the assurance made by the MEC of Police, Roads and Transport, Kwekwe Bulwane that the R26 between Bethlehem and Ladybrand will be fixed after years of lobbying by DA members of the Free State Provincial Legislature and protests by community groups.
The R26 is the economic artery of the region. In the recent past, the agricultural community and the Cherry festival, in towns along this route, lost millions as tourists could not reach it because of the state of the road.
We are encouraged by the announcement that negotiations between the provincial government and SANRAL are at an advanced stage. The DA will ensure that Mr Bulwana keeps his promise for construction to start as soon as possible. The road will become an extension of the national N8 when it is completed.
The DA will continue to work with the people of the Free State to hold the ANC-led government accountable for the delivery of infrastructure and services.