Note to Editors: Please see attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Jessica Nel and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL
It comes as no surprise that the Nyakallong/Allanridge Housing and Relocation Project, initiated by the provincial government, has abruptly halted. If it fails, it will be the second unsuccessful attempt to relocate flooded victims from Nyakallong to Allanridge. The Democratic Alliance in Matjhabeng conducted a preliminary investigation and demands full disclosure on the delay and a clear recovery plan.
On 16 September 2025, Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae and MEC for CoGTA and Human Settlement, Mr Saki Mokoena, addressed residents at Dihwai Primary School. They promised a transparent R14 million intervention to relocate 80 Riverside families to safe homes by March 2026. To date, only five units are nearly complete.
I have submitted enquiries after the project stalled. It is alleged that a Department of Labour inspection found the subcontractor non-compliant, including a lack of proper CIPR registration, health and safety violations, labour disputes, and breaches of building regulations. The project was allegedly suspended until the issue was resolved. Neither contractor, Mr Tshidiso Maqaza, nor subcontractor, Mr Mmuso Makae, provided clarity when approached.
Compounding matters, an ANC Matjhabeng ward councillor was arrested for allegedly assaulting and harassing the subcontractor. On 15 December 2025, during a steering committee meeting, Mr Makae was allegedly slapped “for no apparent reason.” Allanridge Police Station confirmed the incident, and the case is pending. Further allegations of harassment led to an interdict against the councillor.
These incidents raise serious concerns about the project’s integrity. Urgent clarification is required from provincial and local authorities. While provincially led, local interference appears to be hindering progress. I have engaged DA CoGTA and Human Settlement spokesperson regarding these incidents, financial records, and project status, and will request urgent provincial intervention.
Matjhabeng Local Municipality continues to fail its communities. Corruption and poor performance leave vulnerable residents hopeless and disappointed.
Only ethical leadership and strict consequence management can restore trust. We remain committed to these principles and will continue to lead by example.