Press Statement by Jane Sithole: DA Leader in Mpumalanga
Today, on Freedom Day, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mpumalanga took a firm stance over the deteriorating service delivery in Thaba Chweu Local Municipality.
As we reflect on Freedom Day, we reflect not only on our political freedom, but we also reflect on how far we have come as a nation in our fight against poverty, unemployment and inequality.
We reflect on the promise of basic human rights for all, including the right to dignity, freedom, equality- and an undeniable right to drinking water.
In Thaba Chweu, residents have suffered from persistent water shortages, frequent power outages, collapsed municipal infrastructure, and deteriorating road networks for the past several years.
Enough is enough! It is extremely concerning that, despite more than thirty years of democracy, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) reports that around 13.7% of households in Thaba Chweu do not have access to water. Reference is made to a settlement called Marikana (Ward 11) which did not have water for more than ten years, despite being formalised in 2010.
Being in such a predicament, the residents from this area have no choice but to rely on water from a nearby cemetery, where water is only available from 03h00, exposing them to criminals.
Adding to the above, the SAHRC reported that certain residents from Similie and Leroro settlements also suffer from persistent water outages as they only obtain water once a week.
Being cognisant of the above challenges, can we be free if we are still shackled by our past, if we lack basic necessities like water, access to toilets and electricity.
Your vote can make a difference in the upcoming local government elections. Vote for a party that has a proven track record in turning the ANC’s collapsed municipalities around.
Vote for a government that will root out corruption and prioritise service delivery.