There was vigorous debate during the Taking Legislature to the People programme, with accusations by opposition members and residents of corruption and service delivery failures dominating discussions at Cecil Emmett Hall last week.

The two-day programme, hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature, saw political leaders trade sharp words over stalled projects, poor infrastructure, and allegations of mismanagement within the Zululand District Municipality.

Opposition parties accuse municipality of corruption and neglect

During the second day’s proceedings, political tensions rose as opposition parties accused the IFP-led municipality of corruption and neglect.
The Umkhonto weSizwe Party alleged that the district “should already be developed but is instead led by corrupt people,” while the Democratic Alliance said that “the people of Zululand need change, not speeches.”
The African National Congress also weighed in, accusing the municipality of “failing its people” and calling for greater accountability.

IFP defends itself against corruption allegations

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) strongly refuted the claims, saying that some individuals were attempting to “sabotage the party’s reputation” and insisting that it remained committed to serving the residents of Zululand.

Speaker intervenes amid tense proceedings

The heated debate prompted Speaker of the Legislature, Miss Boyce, to intervene, noting for the record that Zululand Mayor Khumalo had allegedly interrupted proceedings and threatened the Speaker during the session.

Oversight report highlights stalled and completed projects

Earlier in the programme, Chairperson of Committees Mahlaba presented a report from a recent multi-party oversight visit, which reviewed both completed and stalled projects across the district.
“We want to see progress and change in the lives of the people of Zululand,” Mahlaba said.

Premier and MECs respond to community concerns

KwaZulu-Natal MECs joined the programme and reported back to residents, with KZN Premier Thami Ntuli responding to concerns of crime and stock theft in the district.

Department urges residents to help fight crime

The Department for Community Safety and Liaison urges everyone to play a role in ridding our province of crime.
It is not only the police that can help prevent crimes, but everyone. Criminals are people we know and live with — it could be your children, husband, uncle, neighbour, etc.

“The department can also monitor the South African Police Services to check whether they still follow protocol when making arrests. Here in Zululand, I can say most of the municipalities have formed forums and organisations that work closely with the police to fight crime. We also look closely at school crimes, like bullying and substance abuse, which is the current matter of urgency.”

Residents express frustration over poor service delivery

The Taking Legislature to the People initiative allows residents to engage directly with government leaders on pressing service delivery issues, including infrastructure, health, education, job creation, and safety.
The Zululand District Municipality includes AbaQulusi, eDumbe, Ulundi, Nongoma, and Phongola local municipalities.

Residents voiced frustration over pothole-ridden roads, unfinished housing projects, and poor communication from local authorities.
“In Mondlo we have no proper roads, and when repairs are done, they just fill the holes with soil,” said Mcebo Zulu, from Ward 20.
Another resident from Ward 4 in the Kwabanakile area raised concerns about a stalled housing project and the condition of road D32.

Legislature calls for stronger oversight and accountability

Despite the heated exchanges, 74 members of the Legislature supported the Chairperson of Committees’ report, calling for continued oversight and accountability to improve service delivery in the district.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.