By Estelle Dansey – DA Councillor Matjhabeng Local Municipality
Note to editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Estelle Dansey and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is taking decisive action to demand accountability and immediate intervention by the Matjhabeng Local Municipality to resolve ongoing sewerage spills plaguing residents in Rheederspark, Extension 2.
Residents have endured severe health and environmental risks for months due to unattended sewerage spills. Despite repeated reports from DA Councillor Estelle Dansey to the municipality since September 2024, little progress has been made. Municipal officials conduct inspections and make empty promises of returning the next day, but the spills remain unaddressed.
This inaction disproportionately affects vulnerable community members, including two visually impaired residents, and poses serious public health risks. The exposure to raw sewerage threatens residents’ health and the local environment, exacerbating the community’s distress.
The DA calls on the Matjhabeng Municipality to take immediate responsibility by repairing and upgrading the sewerage infrastructure without delay. Failure to do so is a clear dereliction of duty and shows disregard for the community’s well-being.
We will escalate this issue by engaging with provincial authorities to ensure Matjhabeng Municipality complies with its obligations. Additionally, Cllr. Dansey will continue reporting these violations regularly.
Residents deserve dignified living conditions and proper municipal services. We will not relent until these critical issues are resolved, ensuring a safer, healthier, and more sustainable environment for all.