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 committed to holding the Matjhabeng Local Municipality accountable by calling for urgent clarity on the long-overdue housing site allocations in Western Holdings (Rheederpark Extension 2).
For more than 15 years, the residents of Western Holdings, also known as Rheederpark Extension 2 or the “Golf Course area”, have endured a cycle of false promises and political manipulation by the ANC government. Time and again, residents were told that site allocations would finally take place, yet nothing has materialised.
We therefore demand immediate action from the Matjhabeng Local Municipality Mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha:
- A transparent and unambiguous update on the status of the land donation and the site allocation process.
- A formal community meeting where the Human Settlements Department must face residents directly.
- A public commitment from the Municipality to deliver on promises that have been outstanding for over 15 years.
Despite the dedicated efforts from myself and my predecessor, former Councillor Igor Scheurkogel, progress remains stalled. Both councillors and residents have been subjected to delays and a persistent lack of transparency from the municipality.
The last official feedback claimed that Matjhabeng Municipality is “awaiting finalisation of a land donation from Harmony.” Yet residents confirm that Harmony has already finalised this donation. If that is the case, the Municipality has no justification for further delays.
This issue has dragged on for far too long. The people of Ward 35 deserve transparency, not empty rhetoric. These sites cannot continue to be dangled as a political carrot, used to lure desperate residents during election campaigns.
I have formally submitted questions to Council regarding this matter, yet have received no substantive response. Continued silence is no longer acceptable.
The people of Ward 35 have waited long enough. They deserve clarity, fairness, and delivery, not excuses.