Does the ‘Good Story’ read well?

Madam – GOOD STORY FEEDS 200 PEOPLE FOR R400 000.

Your report in the Advertiser dated 18 April 2014 bears reference.

I found it most alarming to read that this event cost the ratepayer R400 000, but it has come to light that the tender that was awarded for catering, four buses, decor, sound system, as well as videotaping with three screens amounted to R450 thousand which was more than double the cost of the lowest tender for this project.

Once again the mayor saw fit not to spare costs. In this instance his idea of renting a crowd did not pay off, but the event still had to be paid for as usual by the ratepayers of Newcastle.

It would be interesting to hear what the final cost will be for the entire road show which includes provision of marquee services with chairs and

tables, provision of sound systems with supporting power supply, provision for speed fencing, provision for loud hailing for 31 wards, food and beverages etc, etc,etc which turns out to be more of a political campaign than a service to the community.

LIKE TO KNOW

Response by Mayor, Afzul Rehman:

As usual I am blamed for everything, but when I speak of achievements, I am not allowed to take credit.

In any event, we have a supply chain policy and unit and these events are managed by them. I am not involved in that. Bussing of supporters is a good one; please attend my budget roadshows and I will show true supporters that do not need to be bussed anywhere.

The upcoming election results will show that more than 60 per cent of this city are firmly behind me and the organisation I represent. We bussed ward committee members to the event, not supporters. The story that mentions only 200 people attending the event is false.

Council officials and councillors made up more than that number. In fact pictures of the event show that the Show Hall was in fact close to capacity. The non-attendance of certain political parties came as no surprise; not all of us are pleased with the huge leaps and bounds this administration has made in terms of service delivery, our good story is great, even those who greatly benefit from improved services.

But then again, jealousy makes you nasty….