Note to editors: Please find attached the English soundbite by Cllr Lebohang Chalala and Sesotho by Jafta Mokoena MPL.
The Metsimaholo Local Municipality has repeatedly failed to provide residents with consistent, high-quality services. The communities of Harry Gwala, Amelia, and Gortin have endured load curtailment, leaving them to cope with harsh weather conditions without adequate power supply.
This issue stems from insufficient power infrastructure. Previously, under the Democratic Alliance-led leadership, the municipality approved R2 million to refurbish and enhance the Leitrim substation in Harry Gwala, aiming to secure a continuous electricity supply for these areas.
Since the DA’s removal from Metsimaholo’s leadership, progress has stalled. Despite the appointment of a contractor for R1.5 million, the project cost inexplicably ballooned to R3 million, with no logical explanation from the municipality. This failure has escalated tensions, threatening violent strikes from community members who are frustrated with their deteriorating living conditions.
We commit to investigating the stalled refurbishment of the substation and the unexplained cost increase. We will ensure service delivery is restored and corruption is eliminated in the municipality. By taking these steps, we aim to improve living conditions and prevent further unrest.