Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Maxie Badenhorst and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL. See attached pictures here, here, here, and here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Matjhabeng has escalated the crisis of collapsing road infrastructure in Hennenman, Whites, and Phomolong to the Free State Legislature, pressing for urgent intervention from the Premier, Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae. Without decisive action, Tiger Milling, one of the town’s largest employers, may be forced to shut down, devastating livelihoods and municipal revenue.
On 18 May 2025, the DA submitted a signed petition endorsed by nearly 1,000 residents, over 100 photos, and detailed questions to the Council regarding the collapsing road infrastructure in Hennenman, Whites, and Phomolong. This included Dr. van der Bijl Road, the critical access route to Tiger Milling and Senwes, two of the area’s largest employers.
These questions were meant to be answered at the 29 May 2025 Council meeting, but were excluded from the agenda. After repeated follow-ups, the matter again failed to appear on the 28 August 2025 agenda.
Only after another follow-up, a response was received, but not included in the agenda: a single paragraph from the Acting Municipal Manager, merely stating that the fixing and repairing of these roads will be done in the new financial year.
This dismissive response completely ignored the urgency, the extensive evidence provided, and the devastating impact on businesses and communities. It stands in stark contrast to the R5.2 million already lost by Tiger Milling in damages and infrastructure-related costs.
At a meeting convened by Tiger Milling on 26 August 2025, the company highlighted:
- Over R5.2 million in losses due to poor infrastructure, blocked stormwater systems, and rampant cable theft.
- 24 jobs were lost between December 2024 and July 2025 due to declining production.
- 15 jobs lost due to alcohol abuse linked to socio-economic stress, directly tied to worsening conditions.
- The looming risk of the plant ceasing operations altogether. a disaster for Hennenman and Matjhabeng, as Tiger Milling contributes R5 million per month (R60 million annually) to municipal revenue.
Despite being formally invited, the Mayor, Municipal Manager, CFO, Director of Infrastructure, provincial departments, and even the Office of the Premier failed to attend the 26 August meeting. No apologies were offered.
This absence is a stark reflection of the careless and incompetent attitude that defines Matjhabeng’s current leadership.