POLOKWANE – Political party Born To Win (BTW) has demanded accountability from the Polokwane Municipality over what it describes as deteriorating sports facilities, poor project management and questionable expenditure of public funds.

Party spokesperson Suzan Mapiti raised the concerns last Tuesday, citing the old Peter Mokaba Stadium, Seshego Tennis Court and municipal sports facilities across the city.

Water outage at old Peter Mokaba Stadium

BTW said a water outage at the old stadium during the Polokwane City and Kaizer Chiefs fixture was unacceptable.

According to the party, both teams were reportedly left without running water and could not shower, with water drums only arriving at half-time.

“For a major municipal stadium hosting high-profile events, this is a serious failure and raises questions about the municipality’s preparedness and maintenance systems,” Mapiti said.

Questions over Seshego Tennis Court spending

She also questioned millions of rands reportedly spent on the Seshego Tennis Court, saying residents continue to ask what work was completed and what value was delivered to the community.

“This is an example of poor project management and must be investigated,” she said.

Facilities in a state of disrepair

BTW said several municipal sports facilities across Polokwane are in a state of disrepair, leaving residents, particularly young people, without safe and functional spaces for sport and recreation.

The party said sport is essential to youth development, community building, health and opportunity.

BTW called on the municipality to provide a full account of the Seshego Tennis Court project, including:

• Its budget
• The contractor
• Approved and completed work
• Payments
• Officials responsible

It also wants:

• A comprehensive assessment of all municipal sports facilities to be conducted and published
• Facilities restored and maintained to a functional standard
• The municipality to explain the stadium water failure and outline corrective measures

“Municipal sports facilities belong to the people of Polokwane and must be properly maintained, accessible and fit for purpose,” Mapiti said.

Municipality yet to respond

Polokwane Observer sent questions to municipal spokesperson Willy Mosoma on Monday about the allegations, including the reported water outage, the Seshego Tennis Court budget and contractor, and the municipality’s maintenance plans.

Mosoma said the municipality would respond, but had not done so by the time of going to print. His response will be published once received.

‘Public money cannot keep paying for decay’

Mapiti said BTW would continue demanding transparency, accountability and responsible management of public resources.

“The people of Polokwane deserve facilities that serve their communities, not infrastructure that is allowed to decay while public money continues to be spent,” she said.