Farm residents feel rejected and neglected
Residents of Sakhisizwe Farm said they struggle to access basic service delivery.
eMBALENHLE – The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and disgruntled residents of Sakhisizwe Farm took to the streets over poor service delivery on Friday, 25 September.
They painted the road red and walked about 15 kilometres to hand over a memorandum to the Govan Mbeki Municipality and were accompanied by a large number of police and traffic officers.
The EFF said they resorted to the march after they had made several attempts through letters to find consensus with the mayor and municipal manager.
However they were allegedly told that Council does not discuss issues with political parties, particularly the EFF.
“Our efforts fell on deaf ears and we are despised and ignored for fighting for the rights of the poor.
“Today they are forced to listen to us.
“The EFF is determined to eradicate the unjust treatment and poor service delivery in the area.
“We are guided by the seven non-negotiable cardinal pillars of the EFF, such as free quality education, free health care, housing and sanitation and an accountable and a corrupt-free government,” said Mr Sakkie Mosomane, EFF regional convener.
Ms Velephi Mdlalose, a resident, said the municipality has neglected Sakhisizwe Farm.
She said they are only used by councillors to gain votes and they make empty promises.
“The municipality claimed they would build a R4-m bridge and to our surprise, they used soil to build that bridge.
“Cars have accidents on that bridge almost weekly.”
The memorandum was received by Mr Sakhile Mahlangu, MMC for Development and Planning.
In the memorandum residents demand proper and adequate sanitation, proper roads and electricity.
Mr Mahlangu said the municipality will respond in seven working days.
Mr Mosomane said if Council does not respond in time, they will embark on a continuous militant community protest until their demands are met.
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