Note to editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Estie Senekal and Sesotho by Cllr Sello Mokoena.
On 27 August, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Dihlabeng Local Municipality filed a charge with the Fouriesburg SAPS against the ANC-controlled municipality and the Municipal Manager, Lekgetho Mokgatlhe. This action stems from the continuous discharge of untreated raw sewage from the Fouriesburg sewerage plant into the environment. Please see pictures here, here, here and here.
The consequences of this unchecked pollution are dire. The untreated sewage finds its way through grazing fields into the Grootspruit River, ultimately contaminating the Caledon River. Such persistent pollution poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of Fouriesburg and Mashaeng residents, farmers, nearby towns, and even our Lesotho neighbours.
Beyond the local impact, South Africa’s failure to address this issue violates international water-related agreements with neighbouring countries, damaging our diplomatic relations. The urgency of this matter is further highlighted by recent Cholera outbreaks in parts of the Free State. It’s imperative that permanent solutions are promptly implemented.
The DA has not only taken legal action but has also engaged the Green Scorpions, emphasising its commitment to environmental protection. We remain resolute in safeguarding the constitutionally entrenched environmental rights of all Dihlabeng residents.