Muni removes only toilet
ABOUT 51 families who were relocated from Disteneng to Ext 109 say they fear the risk of contracting diseases such as cholera, as they have to use the bushes when they wanted to relieve themselves.
LIMPOPO – ABOUT 51 families who were relocated from Disteneng to Ext 109 say they fear the risk of contracting diseases such as cholera.
The reason for their fears, residents told Express, was that they had to use the bushes when they wanted to relieve themselves.
Speaking on behalf of residents, Gladys Mothebejane said the problem started last year when the one mobile toilet that was provided by the Polokwane Municipality was removed in August without an alternative being provided.
“We have been experiencing serious challenges as everyone has to go to the bushes when nature calls. Flies are everywhere and we are concerned that we might get diseases in this unhealthy environment,” Mothebejane explained.
She said when the municipality relocated them to this area, they should have provided facilities for them, but instead they kept ignoring their complaints.
“We are tired of making follow-ups and we are helpless. We are forced not only to relieve ourselves in the bushes but also to walk over five kilometres to get water,” she said.
DA provincial leader, Jacques Smalle, said the DA had lodged a complaint on behalf of the 51 families, with the South African Human Rights Commission against mayor Thembi Nkadimeng, requesting the allegations be investigated. He also indicated that the DA would approach Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, to investigate allegations of fraud in the relocation of Disteneng residents. He alleged that fraud was committed by the municipality during the relocation of these families from the old Disteneng settlement.
“The municipality intended to relocate more than 1 700 residents to new extensions on land that does not belong to the municipality. This may amount to fraud, committed against the landless people. The people are forced to live in appalling conditions,” Smalle said.
Express contacted the municipality to find out if they are aware of the allegations and the challenges being experienced by residents. Municipal spokesperson, Tidimalo Chuene, confirmed receipt of the DA’s grievance and said the municipality was in the process of formulating a response.
