DA: ‘protests triggered by unfulfilled promises made by premier Mathabatha’

LIMPOPO – “We urge Limpopo Premier Stanley Mathabatha to take full responsibility for the current violent protests that have erupted in Tubatse,” says Langa Bodlani, DA in a media statement today (Wednesday).

Bodalani in the statement says that the protests in Tubatse have been  triggered by the unfulfilled promises made by premier Mathabatha earlier this year.

“Premier Mathabatha, earlier this year promised the residents of Phasha and Mampuru villages that a contractor would be appointed and be on site before June to tar the road – this never happened.”

“The town of Tubatse has come to a complete halt and within a week several cars, trucks and a bus have been burnt down as a result.”

“On Wednesday morning, angry residents barricaded roads with burning tyres and stones, shops and other business had to shut down,” says Bodlani.

He continues by saying that the situation was compounded by the breakdown of the negotiations on Tuesday (yesterday) between the community and Minister of Minerals, Ngoako Ramatlhodi who arrogantly told the residents that he does not “carry jobs in his pockets”.

This was the most condescending utterance to communities whose life’s prospects are stifled by high rates of unemployment says Bodlani.

“It is unacceptable that these avoidable protests now result in schools being closed down and people unable to go to work.”

“We are deeply concerned with lies that are continually peddled by the ANC, to  people who suffer everyday due to lack of government services.”

“More serious engagement is needed to put an end to this.”

Bodlani says that grievances raised by the community are legitimate and  warrant open and frank discussions between them and the mining sector in the area.

“Premier Mathabatha must step in as an impartial facilitator to bring about amicable solutions.”

“The government must be held accountable and must reflect the will of the people.”