VEREENIGING – Tensions boiled over on August 17 when scores of angry demonstrators shut down the gates of the Sedibeng District Municipality offices in Vereeniging.
Burning tyres, rocks and debris littered the area as protesters blocked access to the municipal offices for most of the day. This action forced municipal officials and motorists to turn away.
According to protesters, the shutdown was driven by their growing frustration over alleged illegal foreign nationals operating businesses in their communities.
Demonstrators claimed that several attempts have been made to raise concerns about foreign nationals allegedly operating businesses without the necessary documentation or compliance with municipal requirements.
One leader said the Local Economic Development Department in Emfuleni Local Municipality has given foreign nationals a green light to operate as they claim their documents are in order.
The situation has reportedly also led to clashes between some residents and members of the foreign community, with rocks allegedly exchanged during confrontations.
Several meetings have been held between the groups to find common ground and resolve the dispute, but protesters claim these engagements failed to produce a satisfactory solution.
The lack of progress ultimately fuelled Monday’s protest, with demonstrators taking their grievances directly to the municipality.
Municipal officials were seen gathered outside the locked gates as access to the offices remained restricted. Motorists attempting to enter the premises were also forced to turn around.
Speaking to Ster, Mohanoe Mohanoe, chairman of Vaal Concern Community Mabahambe (VCCM), explained the protesters’ position and why the group decided to take action.
Mohanoe said the community was demanding urgent intervention and a meaningful response to concerns that had allegedly been raised repeatedly.
“We closed down the municipality because we needed answers from the municipal manager. We have learned that the LED unit in Emfuleni has allowed foreign nationals to continue to trade,” he said.
“We met with the municipal manager of Sedibeng, who promised that he was going to have a meeting with municipalities under Sedibeng to outline challenges and pursue the LED office and get answers for us,” he added.
According to the leaders, a meeting is scheduled for August 28 for feedback on their grievances.
SDM had not responded to inquiries at the time of going to press.
