Note to editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Lebohang Mohlamme.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mangaung Metro Municipality conducted an oversight visit to Thaba Nchu Airport and uncovered a distressing reality: the airport has ceased operations, resulting in a significant loss of employment opportunities for many individuals. The infrastructure stands in ruins, with damaged buildings, broken windows, and no roofing in sight. Please see the pictures here, here, here and here.
Established in 1988 the airport once symbolised pride and prosperity for the community. However, since the advent of the ANC, the airport’s decline reflects a stark failure on the part of the ANC to uphold its responsibility towards the people of Thaba Nchu.
The closure of the airport, due to mismanagement is unacceptable as the municipality struggles with an unemployment crisis. The DA calls upon the government to prioritise infrastructure maintenance, recognising its pivotal role in attracting potential investors and fostering economic growth.
For over two decades, the DA has forewarned about the pitfalls of cadre deployment, which have materialised in the form of cronyism, corruption, and a compromised state apparatus. These issues manifest in corruption scandals, financial mismanagement, and a deterioration in essential services.
A cornerstone of a DA-led government will be the establishment of a competent, professional public service focused solely on delivering high-quality services to all South Africans.
Cadre deployment has left the state bereft of the skills and capacity necessary to provide basic services such as water, electricity, housing, and transportation. Redressing this through the recruitment of skilled personnel is imperative to addressing these pressing challenges.
We are resolutely committed to effecting nationwide change and thus urge all residents to cast their votes in the 2024 National and Provincial Government elections on 29 May.