2025 has been a tough year for ActionSA’s newly elected proportional representative (PR) councillor Tumelo Shai, but when he hosted the community, and Action SA members, for the end-year celebration party at Tsutsumane on Saturday, the focus was wholly on what they have achieved in the community, despite the challenges they encountered.

Shai said the event, held on December 6, was meant to highlight the work they have done this year, and his election as PR councillor, which he said, puts him in a position where he will be able to serve people even more, and to raise their pressing issues in council meetings.

Read more: Alex youth demand stronger voice in policy renewal

He highlighted the issues his team has been tackling in the community, which includes electricity supply, potholes, and, most urgently, illegal evictions in Alexandra.

“Those are the primary things that we have been focusing on. I did not want to be limited by demarcations. When there is an issue in another ward, I try to assist, and engage with councillors in those wards.”

Reflecting on his election as PR councillor, he emphasised his commitment to building an emotional connection with residents, making himself available to address their needs.
Even before his election, he was a familiar figure in the community, known for his involvement in local initiatives and for running a soccer team.

Also read: Councillor says Marlboro needs the city’s attention

Shai admitted that 2025 has been a difficult year, particularly due to the illegal evictions’ crisis. “The most challenging issue was with the illegal evictions. It put my life in jeopardy. That is why I even had to move from my place for a while. I am so disappointed by our local police, because they did nothing. Even today, that place is still occupied by the syndicate.”

He described sleepless nights and dangerous encounters with criminals, but insisted that leadership required standing firm against crime.

Although the contested house remains occupied, Shai said progress was made in resolving ownership disputes. When he accompanied the evicted family to the housing department, officials confirmed that, while the system recognised them as rightful occupants, the allocation process had not been completed.

“We went to all the relevant departments, and, at the end, we managed to get that allocation letter.”

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!