This statement follows the sewage spills oversight inspection to Kimberley by DA Shadow Minister of Water and Sanitation, Leon Basson MP, joined by local Councillor Ockert Fourie
Today, the DA went to Kimberley following concerns of non-delivery of services with regards to sanitation and sewage in Galeshewe township and Roodepan. What we found was a dysfunctional Sol Plaatje Local Municipality.
This coincided with the community protest by residents who want the Mayor Managaliso Matika removed for his failure to ensure delivery of services to the people.
The old infrastructure and the lack of maintenance by the Sol Plaatje municipality has forced the residents of Galeshewe and Roodepan to live with raw sewage overflowing into the streets. Mayor Matika’s refusal to leave office is an indication of the ANC government’s indifference to the people’s plight. The municipality has completely ignored the serious health concerns raised by community members.
The severity of this undesirable situation grossly undermines the dignity of our people and threatens their health. What’s more, nothing is seen to be done to address these concerns and correct this dire situation.
The people of Kimberley have spoken and they desperately need a change in government where service delivery will be prioritised.
The DA will not permit a situation where inferior health and compromised safety of our people continues to prevail.
The DA will continue to work diligently until the sewage is upgraded and that the people of Kimberley do not have to be bear the brunt of an undignified sewage system.
The people of Kimberley deserve a new ray of hope that can only be provided by a DA-led government that will work to put the people first by ensuring the delivery and maintenance of quality services.