Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Estelle Pretorius and Sesotho soundbite by Cllr Mahalia Kose. See attached pictures here, here, and here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Tswelopele expresses its deep disappointment and concern over the shocking state of roads in both Bultfontein and Phahameng, particularly in Ward 5, where many roads have deteriorated to the point that residents can barely drive a bakkie through them, especially during rainy conditions.
We will write to the MEC for Community, Roads, and Transport to urge urgent intervention. The situation has become so severe that emergency vehicles, including ambulances, struggle to reach homes during emergencies, placing the lives and safety of residents at serious risk.
For almost a year, the DA has also repeatedly urged the municipality to grade and prepare a soccer field for the area’s youth. Recreational facilities play an important role in keeping young people occupied and away from crime, alcohol, and drug abuse. Unfortunately, our pleas have fallen on deaf ears.
What is even more concerning is the clear contrast in priorities the municipality displays. Suddenly, when a trade union rally linked to ANC interests was hosted in town, no effort was spared to clean the town, fill potholes, and dump gravel on damaged roads.
Municipal vehicles and resources were seemingly mobilised without hesitation to support political activities. At the same time, ordinary residents continue to suffer daily due to collapsing infrastructure and a lack of basic service delivery.
The DA believes municipal resources should serve the entire community equally, not be used to advance political agendas while neglecting residents.
Residents of Tswelopele deserve dignity, safe roads, proper service delivery, and leadership that places the community first.