Note to editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Thulani Mbana.
On 14 February 2024, the special council meeting was convened in line with the SALGA circular for the council of Metsimaholo Local Municipality to resolve on whether to approve or reject the integration of Heilbron into the municipality. This move was defeated by the DA and other opposition parties.
The DA Metsimaholo caucus vehemently opposed the integration and provided facts that showed the premature and devastating effects this integration would have on the municipality.
Apart from arguments and inaccurate facts brought by the ANC to support the integration, this move was defeated as the DA was supported by EFF, FF+, MCA and ATM. It came as no surprise as Executive Mayor, Jack Malindi supported the integration without the best interests of Metsimaholo and its people at heart, attempting to hold on to the seat at whatever cost and for as long as he can. The Executive Mayor was unable to provide clear facts as to why he used his vote to support the integration.
This integration if approved and forced on the people of Metsimaholo by the Municipal Demarcation Board will have dire consequences including a continuous failure to provide basic services which is a constitutional obligation of any local government. The integration is viewed by the DA as nothing but an attempt by the ANC to gain political power in the next local government elections by including 5 wards that are still under the ANC in Heilbron.
Democratic Alliance will continue to fight for the future and best interest of the people of Metsimaholo.