Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr René Steyn and Sesotho soundbite by Cllr Kabelo Moreeng.
The Democratic Alliance in Matjhabeng is outraged by the blatant political interference that continues to dictate who benefits from development projects and service delivery. The recent exclusion of unemployed youth from Ward 32, particularly in the current solar projects, is yet another example of how DA-governed wards are systematically sidelined from economic opportunities.
Despite multiple memoranda submitted by the youth of Doorn and Reitzpark to both the Executive Mayor and the Speaker, their pleas for inclusion have been ignored. This pattern of selective development is not accidental; it is political punishment.
Leading up to the 2026 Local Government Elections, the ANC-run Matjhabeng Municipality seems prepared to sacrifice communities purely to frustrate opposition representation, no matter the human cost. This disgraceful conduct not only deepens unemployment but also destroys livelihoods and denies residents the dignity of work.
Service delivery tells the same story. DA wards face constant neglect, water leaks left unattended, roads unrepaired, and refuse uncollected, while resources are channelled to areas that serve political agendas instead of community needs.
The DA demands:
- An immediate investigation into politically motivated exclusion from municipal projects;
- Equal opportunity for all residents, regardless of political affiliation, in recruitment and procurement processes;
- Transparent publication of employment allocations and contractor lists for all significant projects;
- Accountability from the Executive Mayor and Municipal Manager for this ongoing discrimination.
Matjhabeng’s youth deserve better than being used as political pawns. The DA stands firm in defending fair access, dignity, and opportunity for every resident.