A growing wave of frustration among residents of Merafong City Local Municipality has led to plans for a large-scale shutdown scheduled for October 24, 2025. Organised by the Merafong Service Delivery Crisis Forum (MSDCF), the protest aims to express dissatisfaction with the municipality’s management of essential services.

Buti Elliot Mtembu, one of the key organisers from the MSDCF, announced that protesters will gather at the municipal buildings in Carletonville to hand over a memorandum to several high-ranking officials. These include the National Police Commissioner, Auditor-General, Public Protector, Acting Head of the Hawks, and the Director General of Gauteng’s Department of Water and Sanitation.

Mtembu criticized the Executive Mayor of Merafong City for what he described as “arrogant and dismissive conduct” in response to genuine service delivery concerns raised by communities such as Fochville and others across the municipality. Instead of addressing core issues like mismanagement and neglect, the mayor reportedly responded with threats.

“The MSDCF calls on all residents of Merafong, regardless of political affiliation, to join this peaceful shutdown. It is time to stand united for decent and accountable governance,” said Mtembu.

The forum also urged residents of Ward 10 in Khutsong to participate actively in the upcoming by-election to ensure their voices are heard.

Communities expected to take part in the shutdown include Kokosi, Khutsong and Khutsong Extension 5, Welverdiend, and Carletonville.