As we move closer to the fifth democratic local government elections to be held in 2016, community protests – even in Mogale City – will escalate.
Some will be motivated politically, others will be genuine community protests. Brace yourselves.
That said, I wish to implore our political leaders to jack up their communication with communities. Part of the reason for community protests is our leaders’ poor communication with the electorate. Most of the time they communicate after the fact, which is problematic.
The nice part about this is that they know that lack of communication with communities is part of the problem. But they have done little to improve on that score. It is about time they improve, for the sake of progress. Is that asking too much?
Another wave of service delivery protests has hit Kagiso. It’s still the same issue – roofing. This time the demonstration happened in Kagiso Avenue, the ever busiest street in the area. Big street, as is fondly called, was barricaded and tyres burnt. What’s new?
I’m not familiar with the facts around the roofing issue in Kagiso, except for what I hear on the sidelines. I hear different and contradicting stories all the time. And I’m sure other concerned residents hear the same contradicting stories. The danger is that such conflicting stories sow seeds of confusion and distrust in the minds of citizens.
The pertinent question is: what is the real story behind the roofing issue? And when will roofing be done and completed in the area? Can somebody be kind enough to let us know the truth?
It is my considered view that the matter has dragged on for far too long. It’s time it is resolved so that we can move on.
