Leandra residents not happy with their councillor and want to stop project
Unemployed youths and concerned residents accuse Mr Anthony Makhaye of nepotism and arrogance.
LEANDRA – Mr Anthony Makhaye, MMC of Community Safety and Ward 3 councillor, was in the hot seat when unemployed youths threatened the upgrading of the Lebohang sewerage pump station project on Tuesday, 13 March.
The angry locals said they were shocked that the project has begun without proper consultations by Mr Makhaye.
They said he did not follow the proper procedure in appointing the workers and accused him of nepotism.
They gave him an ultimatum of 24 hours to respond to their demands and concerns or they would stop the project.
Mr Moses Malaza, community representative, said they are not against community development, but against nepotism and corruption.
“We welcome the development in our community, but are not happy with the lack of transparency.
“Mr Makhaye did not do a thorough consultation and did not engage with all stakeholders. We are calling on Govan Mbeki Municipality to intervene in this matter.
“We want transparency and want Mr Makhaye to give us answers. During the last meeting he had promised to come back to us, but he did not.”
He said they contacted him telephonically regarding the matter, but he was arrogant and rude and told them to do whatever they want to do.
Mr Malaza demand that jobs and contracts are given to locals and that the issuing of tenders are done in a fair manner.
The upgrading of the Lebohang sewerage pump station is expected to be completed in September.
Mr Nhlakanipho Zuma, Speaker of the municipality, was aware of the protest, but could not comment.
“I am still investigating the issue and am waiting for reports. When I am finished, I will talk to the media.
“I want to establish how the councillor is implicated in matters concerning tenders.”
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