DELMAS – The Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature held a public hearing at the Victor Khanye Local Municipality (VKLM) in the Ext 3 Botleng Community Hall on Friday, 14 February 2025. The event formed part of the Taking the Legislature to the People (TLP) initiative, which aims to address cross-cutting issues affecting the community. Residents attended in large numbers to raise their concerns and express their hopes for positive change.
The TLP provided a platform for community members to voice their concerns and interact with government representatives.
Key issues raised during the hearing included service delivery challenges, infrastructure development, and social welfare concerns. Community members emphasised the need for improved basic services, such as water and sanitation, better roads, as well as enhanced economic opportunities and job creation initiatives. Community members also expressed their frustration over the allocation of RDP houses, with some waiting since as far back as 1995.
Sam Masango, deputy speaker of the provincial legislature, emphasised the legislature’s responsibility to engage with the community and municipalities.
“As a representative body, the legislature must meet with all municipalities to listen to their concerns and conduct oversight, ensuring that constitutional obligations are met.”
Masango highlighted the importance of addressing issues in Victor Khanye, which requires an integrated programme under the District Development Model (DDM). This programme will bring together mayors, MECs, departments, and Chapter Nine institutions to focus on improving living conditions in Delmas.
“The current visit marks the first phase, dubbed ‘pre-TLP,’ aimed at identifying issues and preparing MECs for a comprehensive legislature programme scheduled for March 10-14 at Simon Gondwe Sports Centre. During this period, the entire legislature will converge on Victor Khanye Local Municipality to address the community’s concerns,” he said.
In response to the community’s concerns, the legislature committed to providing feedback between March 10 and 14, 2025. During this period, all Members of the Executive Council (MECs) will be in attendance to engage with the community and address their concerns.
Florah Sitoe, a community member and MKP member, emphasised the significance of the Legislature’s presence in Victor Khanye, saying it’s important to bring about positive change and foster accountability and transparency within VKLM.
“As the Legislature is responsible for making laws and holding the executive accountable, I believe the community may feel more represented and heard in provincial decision-making processes,” she said.
