Premier has Midrand at heart
CARLSWALD - Gauteng Premier David Makhura has an invested interest in Midrand as a member of the ANC Midrand Constituency and has his ear to the ground on Midrand matters.
“I don’t want to be cushioned from experiencing what the people are experiencing. I want to know when the traffic lights are not working or when there are water and electricity outages,” said Makhura.
He addressed community members at Midrand Calvary Church in Carlswald on 30 June.
His address came two days before the by-election to elect a new councillor for Ward 112 and while he was not campaigning, he said the community should elect a councillor that would listen to their problems.
His address saw a good turn-out of community members but he challenged the community to fill every seat in the house next time, as he would host more community meetings to address concerns.
Makhura raised his own issues in Midrand, pointing to how the spatial design of Apartheid has impacted Midrand. He recalled in the past Midrand had many open spaces, plots and horses. “Now Midrand is too built up, there are too many townhouses and no spaces for children to play. We need to change the way people live in gated communities, afraid of each other,”said Makhura.
He said the National Development Plan’s vision over the next five to 15 years aimed to transform the spatial landscape as well as to radically transform the economy. Public transport; giving residents, including those in the township, and youth resources in order to contribute to the economy was top priority. He said government had to encourage more people to start their own small, medium enterprises and provide structures, such as accessible broadband. Public transport is also top priority.
The community raised a number of issues including e-tolls, the need for better clinic services and that government departments should be open for longer hours. Makhura reiterated that a panel would be set up to revise e-tolls, just as in his provincial address last week and said he would investigate the state of the clinics and government department working hours.
He also believed Midrand needs a multipurpose centre to bring the community together.
“We need to give quality of life for all people, not only in Midrand suburbs but in the townships too,” said Makhura.
