We are a watchdog, not a target – so don’t shoot the messenger. Stand with us instead and help expose those who continue to fail this community while sitting comfortably in their offices at the council chambers in Germiston.

A live video we published on Sunday, exposing the shocking condition of the road leading to John Barrable Hall at Benoni Northerns Sports Club, sparked exactly the kind of conversation we hoped it would.

But buried among the responses was a comment from a prominent community member suggesting that this paper selectively highlights the neglect of certain sporting facilities over others.

It’s a claim that doesn’t hold up.

Since 2023, we have consistently reported on the steady decay of public sporting and recreational infrastructure across Benoni.

From the Benoni City Hall, Sinaba Stadium to Willowmoore Park ahead of the ICC U19 World Cup in 2024, from the Walmsley Park tennis courts to the Benoni Central Swimming Pool, and from Crystal Park’s courts to the Actonville Sports Complex – the pattern is clear, and so is our coverage. We have not cherry-picked. We have documented.

At times, it felt like a lonely fight. But the encouragement from residents who recognised the importance of shining a light on these issues kept us going. Because that is the role of a community newspaper – to hold those in power accountable, without fear or favour.

Also Read: The Corner Flag: Memory, neglect and the games politicians play

Let’s be clear – the responsibility to maintain these facilities lies squarely with the City of Ekurhuleni. Ratepayers deserve safe, functional spaces for sport and recreation. When those spaces are allowed to deteriorate, questions must be asked, and answers must follow.

In a previous column, Memory, neglect and the games politicians play, we warned of a dangerous cycle.

Scandal erupts, outrage follows, and politicians respond with carefully crafted statements that create the illusion of action. But as the days pass, the noise fades, attention shifts and accountability dissolves. Before long, the same officials resurface in different roles, and the cycle continues.

That cycle thrives on public forgetfulness – and it is costing our communities dearly.

The state of our facilities is not an accident. It is the result of prolonged inaction, weak oversight, and, as has been exposed by the Madlanga Commission, the misuse of public funds.

This is precisely why sustained pressure matters.

So while frustration in the community is entirely justified, it should be directed where it belongs, which is at those entrusted with managing public resources. Not at those working to expose the failures.

We will continue to do our part. We will keep asking uncomfortable questions. We will keep documenting what others would rather ignore.

Because if we don’t, who will?

Also Read: The Corner Flag: Playgrounds of decay