Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Werner Pretorius MPL and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) will urgently lobby the Provincial Government, calling for immediate intervention to restore and preserve one of the province’s most well-known and historic buildings, the 4th Raadsaal, in Bloemfontein.
This iconic building, central to the province’s legislative history, is in a state of growing disrepair due to years of poor maintenance, neglect, and the absence of critical facility upgrades. The DA is particularly concerned about the visible damage to the roof, walls and structure of the building due to water and moist, leaking gutters, broken wooden frames and several rooms that are unusable. See photos here, here, here, here and here.
The DA submitted a question to the MEC of Public Works and Infrastructure in the Province regarding the condition of the historic building. In a written response by the MEC, it was indicated that estimated costs for renovations would amount to more than R33 million.
The 4th Raadsaal is not only a functioning seat of government but also a heritage site of immense cultural and historic value. The deterioration of the building reflects not just administrative neglect but a broader disregard for preserving the legacy and dignity of our democratic institutions. If urgent steps are not taken, the damage may become irreversible, erasing a vital part of the Free State’s architectural and political heritage.
The DA will press for accountability from the Free State Provincial Government and demand a funded, time-bound restoration plan to halt the decline and initiate the restoration process. Residents of the Free State deserve a Legislature that reflects the strength and pride of a functioning democracy.