Note to editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Igor Scheurkogel and Sesotho by Karabo Khakhau MP.
The residents of Ward 28 in Thabong, Matjhabeng Local Municipality, are finding themselves increasingly isolated by sewage, a consequence of the complete breakdown of the sewer system. Koel Lenya Street, leading to Moremaphofu Intermediate School, lies in ruins due to neglect of the sewer infrastructure. Please see the pictures here, here, here and here.
The sewage pump station adjacent to the school lies idle, resulting in untreated sewage being discharged into open fields, contaminating the surrounding community. Furthermore, Koel Lenya Street, built over a stormwater channel, has been damaged to facilitate the flow of sewage from the pump station into the open fields.
Regrettably, these crises have become all too familiar in Matjhabeng, as the ANC-led municipality continues to neglect its duty to the residents, prioritising political gestures and appeasing SAMWU protesters over essential services.
For over two decades, the DA has cautioned against the dangers of cadre deployment, foreseeing its detrimental effects: cronyism, corruption, and the erosion of essential services. Today, these warnings have become a reality. The symptoms are evident: corruption, financial mismanagement, inadequate planning, and unreliable reporting—factors contributing to the decline of basic services.
Addressing these challenges will be a key priority for a DA government, which will strive to establish a professional, merit-based public service focused solely on delivering quality services to all South Africans. We will raise this crisis in the council to ensure that active steps are taken in addressing the issue.
The consequences of cadre deployment and financial mismanagement have crippled Matjhabeng. On 29 May 2024, residents will have the opportunity to reset the course of their municipality by participating in the National and Provincial Elections. This election presents a chance to demand better governance and improved services.
Join forces with the Democratic Alliance to rescue South Africa during the upcoming National and Provincial Elections.