Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Anelia Smit and Sesotho soundbite by David Masoeu MPL. See attached pictures here and here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Nketoana Local Municipality has applied pressure by writing to the municipality to repair and properly secure a hazardous electrical box in a residential area in Reitz, following serious safety concerns identified during an oversight visit.
DA councillors Anelia Smit and Thinus Blignaut, together with David Masoeu, Member of the Provincial Legislature, recently inspected the site where the electrical box has been left open and unsafe for months, posing a significant risk to residents.
During the visit, it was observed that the electrical box was merely enclosed with wire to restrict access. This measure is wholly inadequate, as any person can easily remove the wire and gain direct access to live electrical cables. This situation poses a severe danger to residents, especially children who are naturally curious and may not fully understand the risks.
It is unacceptable that Nketoana Local Municipality has made no visible effort to resolve the issue and properly secure the electrical box. This negligence places the community at risk and reflects a serious lack of accountability and service delivery. This incident is particularly alarming in light of the tragic death of a 9-year-old boy from Bothaville, who was electrocuted two months ago after coming into contact with a live anchor cable.
The DA mourns this heartbreaking incident and believes that such tragedies can be prevented through timely and responsible action by authorities.
We urge the Nketoana Local Municipality to take immediate action and repair and secure the hazardous electrical box, ensuring the safety of all residents.
We remain committed to fighting for proper service delivery, accountability, and the well-being of everyone in Nketoana.