Note to editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Jafta Mokoena MPL and Afrikaans by Dr Roy Jankielsohn MPLP and English and Sesotho videos by Jafta Mokoena MPL and Cllr Palesa Mbana
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Free State has undertaken an essential oversight of the R59 road, a critical economic artery linking the Western Free State to Gauteng. The prolonged closure of this vital route near Viljoenskroon has dealt a severe blow to the local economy, resulting in widespread job losses and an economic collapse with local businesses struggling to stay afloat.
The ANC-led provincial government has conveniently overlooked the plight of the R59 road, which has remained submerged and impassable since the 2022 rainy season. The continued closure of the R59 road has had devastating consequences for the local community and businesses. Job losses have surged, trade costs have skyrocketed due to longer routes and high fuel prices, and road safety has been severely compromised with the use of deteriorating alternative roads. Please see pictures here, here and here.
The alternative route currently in use is in a deplorable state, posing a significant safety hazard to all who rely on it. The continued use of this road is tantamount to a death trap.
We are committed to relentlessly reminding the ANC government about the dire circumstances faced by the residents of Viljoenskroon and the surrounding areas.
The DA in the Free State will promptly engage with relevant authorities, advocating for the immediate reconstruction and reopening of the R59 road. We will leave no stone unturned to ensure that this vital lifeline is restored.