‘We are sick and tired to being misled by these politicians who are known for being deceitful’
EMALAHLENI – Residents of L Section, Ward 4, are tired of unkept promises made by the Emalahleni municipality.
They carried their sense of being neglected when it comes to the municipality’s development activities.
The absence of electricity, water and proper sanitation pose significant challenges for the residents, who are now urging the local authority to take decisive actions to address these pressing issues.
On Wednesday, August 21, 2024, furious residents marched to the municipal main offices to present their grievances regarding the conditions in the area.
They presented a formal memorandum addressed to mayor Vusi Nhlapho, urging prompt action in response to the challenges facing their community.
Leader David Mofokeng articulated his discontent regarding the inadequate progress, absence of fundamental amenities, and ineffective communication from local authorities. “For over three decades, we have resided in Section L without witnessing substantial development,” he lamented.
Mofokeng pointed out unfulfilled commitments made by the authorities. “The municipality promised to finish the development, but we still don’t have electricity, proper water pipes, or good sanitation. They also promised to relocate residents from houses marked CR, but no one has been moved yet,” he said.
He pointed out that vulnerable residents like the elderly and unemployed youth, are suffering because they haven’t been given proper housing. “They should have been moved into RDP houses by now,” he said. “The municipality’s failure to keep their promises has left many people in a tough spot.”
Linda Shozi, community member, also remarked, “We are tired of empty promises. We have been waiting for over three decades for the municipality to deliver on its promises. We still do not have water or electricity, and the majority of our homes are not even recognized by the municipality for basic services. We are simply asking for what we deserve as citizens”.
The residents were informed they would receive a response within a fortnight.
The mayor reassured them the matter would be attended promptly and committed to delivering feedback within the stipulated timeframe.
“We shall certainly return for feedback in two weeks. We are sick and tired to being misled by these politicians who are known for their deceitful ways,” remarked protester Nandipha Skhosana. “Upon our return, we expect a definitive response accompanied by a firm commitment, not merely another pledge.”
