Ward councillors give messages of resilience

In the time that the province is still reeling from the effects the third wave has had on businesses and people’s lives. we were dealt with another blow of mass looting and rioting in parts of the province.

It would be understandable if one were to give into to a sense of impending doom. It is important, however, that we remember to keep together even in the face of adversities. Our various ward councillors give their messages of calm in this time.

Here is what some had to say:

Ward 98 Councillor Beverly Weweje:
During this time, we need to connect with our local authorities (CPFs, SAPS and local security companies), in an attempt to receive accurate information. We can furthermore assist by not spreading misinformation and fake news. Ensure that communication received is from a reliable source with date stamps. No local businesses had been affected by looting in Ward 98, and both the Linden SAPS and Fairland SAPS are keeping a vigilant eye on matters. We also have excellent security service providers who have been on the ground, keeping residents informed.

Ward 99 Councillor Nicole van Dyk:
It’s a very difficult time in the City, in the last few weeks residents have had to start forking out more for rates and taxes, power outages going into the days, Covid-19 ravaging our communities and now looting in and among the above. It’s completely understandable that we are all on edge and running on frustration from ongoing uncertainty, but I would plead with residents to stay calm and continue to be there for each other as we have in the last 15 months. The only way we get through this, is to say we have got through so much: with the spirit of Ubuntu.

Ward 101Councillor Dalu Cele:
I would like to encourage the residents to take care of themselves and keep safe under the scourge of Covid-19, to make sure they wear their masks and maintain social distancing. I wish to thank the residents for keeping calm and maintaining law and order while other parts of Johannesburg have been marred by criminal looting and destruction of property. I encourage residents to be vigilant and work together to protect any attempts to the destruction of public and private infrastructure, our livelihoods depend on it.

Ward 104 Councillor Mike Wood:
Remain calm, obey all law enforcement agencies, don’t spread false messages. At this stage, try and limit your movements and at all times adhere to the Covid-19 protocols. If you have skills that can be used, such as retired health professionals, perhaps make contact and offer services if need be. I think down the line businesses will be impacted as confidence is lost in the economy. The sooner peace and law and order can be restored, the better. The CPF is assisting SAPS in the execution of their duties. We,as a community, will get through this. Let us pull together and help one another. Keep an eye on our neighbours and be kind to all.

Ward 134 Councillor Wendy Alexander:
We are strong together, stay united, alert and vigilant. While I support freedom of speech, violent riots can never be the answer. In these very uncertain times, it is important for individuals to remain calm. It’s essential to only share verified media content, we have seen a spate of fake news doing the rounds. This not only creates panic within the community but also puts massive strain on the very stretched EMS services. The lockdown regulations have had serious consequences for many of our businesses and, in some cases, dire effects. Businesses have had to reinvent themselves in order to be compliant with strict regulations. The riots around Johannesburg have added to the complexity of doing business. Many businesses have taken precautionary action in order to protect themselves from the potential looting. Businesses simply can’t afford to stay closed indefinitely and thousands of people are reliant on them for work.