Note to Editors: Please find attached English soundbite by David Mc Kay MPL, Afrikaans soundbite by Cllr. Johan Steenkamp and Sesotho soundbite by David Masoeu MPL.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) will submit formal questions to Tokologo Municipality demanding a full account of any involvement by elected representatives or municipal officials in employment and wage negotiations linked to the Notsi 475MW solar photovoltaic project. We will further seek clarity on the municipality’s response to allegations of intimidation, obstruction and political interference surrounding this major private investment.
These oversight steps follow serious allegations concerning Tokologo Mayor Boitumelo Enoch Seakge and political structures operating in the area. Correspondence issued on behalf of CNWE Energy, the contractor responsible for the project, alleges that protest action disrupted operations and blocked access to the project via the S322 road.
The correspondence further alleges intimidation and threats surrounding protest action, which reportedly required SAPS intervention. CNWE subsequently demanded that the alleged incitement, obstruction, intimidation and interference cease, warning that it could seek urgent High Court relief.
The DA will therefore demand answers on whether the Mayor or any municipal representative became involved in employment, wage or other negotiations between the company and community structures; in what capacity they acted; and whether municipal authority or resources were used in these engagements.
These allegations must be properly investigated and if substantiated, they raise serious concerns about the potential abuse of public office and the impact political interference could have on investor confidence, employment and economic development.
This is particularly concerning given reports that 14 additional solar developments have been approved for the area. Tokologo desperately needs investment and sustainable employment, and political instability cannot be allowed to drive potential investors away.
Investors and residents deserve certainty that development can proceed lawfully and without political interference or intimidation.
The DA will use every available municipal and legislative oversight mechanism to establish the facts, demand accountability where wrongdoing is found, and protect Tokologo’s economic future. The DA’s plan is to create investment-ready municipalities that attract jobs and growth by cutting red tape and keeping politics out of economic development. On 4 November vote DA to help get our municipality working for all!