The DA in Mkhondo is aware of a service delivery protest currently taking place in Eziphunzini. Protesters have illegally closed the R543 Wakkerstroom with burning tyres and rocks. It is understood that for over a year now the community of Eziphunzini has been faced with water shortages.
In the past, residents of this community reached out to the municipality’s executive where they detailed their concerns. the municipality’s top brass failed to acknowledge the disgruntled community members. Instead, they continue to run amok, while residents are yearning for service delivery.
This goes to show that residents of this community have become fed-up with the incompetent ANC government that has proven to be inefficient.
The DA finds it disappointing that residents have to take to the streets and demand basic services. Schools in the township have been disrupted, some residents were unable to get to work on time and businesses are also affected.
We urge residents to exercise their Constitutional right to protest, within the prescripts of the law, and we strongly condemn the destruction of infrastructure and deploying violent tactics during protests.
The municipality’s executive mayor, Ngelosi Ndlovu was at the scene yesterday, where he engaged community leaders and made promises. Shortly after her visit, the road was opened and peace was restored. However, this morning, the residents are back on the streets demonstrating their frustrations.
It has become clear that mayor Ndlovu and her ANC cadre mayoral committee have failed to provide a democratic and accountable government for communities. Municipalities are the sphere of government closest to the people.
Therefore, they have powers and duties that directly affect the development of local areas and the daily lives of local residents. ANC cadres at municipality level need to understand that their duties include establishing clear channels of communication with local communities and being responsive to their needs.
Residents should take note that they have the sole mandate of removing the corrupt ANC government when they get to the polls. The DA prides itself in practicing transparency and accountability where it governs. We remain committed to providing basic services to residents.