Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Dulandi Leech MPL and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL
The Democratic Alliance (DA) will conduct ongoing oversight, demand a clear infrastructure rehabilitation plan from the Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport, and develop workable proposals to improve service delivery, asset management, and revenue efficiency at registration authorities.
Recent oversight at Lengau Registration Authority showed that Smart Enrolment Units (SEUs), integrated payment systems and online booking services have improved efficiency, reduced queues and enabled same-day service for licensing and registration applicants.
However, these gains are undermined by infrastructure neglect. The December 2025 closure was linked to severe structural defects, including a leaking roof at the Eye Test Office. Security vulnerabilities persist across the province, with many sites lacking functional alarm systems and relying on limited personnel. The expiry of the Vehicle Testing Station calibration contract has also forced motorists to use private providers, resulting in provincial revenue losses.
An additional concern is that revenue collected at registration authorities is remitted to the provincial government rather than retained by the department, creating limited incentives for officials to perform and for additional funds to be reinvestment in maintenance and upgrades.
Officials at Lengau furthermore do not appear to understand the potential income of the testing station, which is concerning as the department was unable to properly report on the potential annual income of the station.
In addition, there is concern that even where camera enforcement equipment exists, it has limited impact as the National Prosecuting Authority is reportedly not prosecuting road trespass or related offences. The DA will also seek clarity on the percentage of fines issued versus those that are not successfully prosecuted.
These failures directly affect voters through reduced service access, inefficiencies and weakened enforcement of road safety. The DA will continue oversight and develop practical, evidence-based proposals to address these systemic challenges.