EFF laments attacks on economic growth in Vaal

SEDIBENG.– The EFF in Sedibeng is concerned about the attack on the economy of the Vaal by what it said are rogue elements.

This past weekend the community of Vaal was left shocked and devastated when Bophelong community leader Thabiso Maphike, who advocated for the local economy, was shot multiple times and succumbed to his injuries. Isaac Khithika, the EFF Sedibeng Chairperson, said the EFF in Sedibeng is deeply concerned about the direct attack on the economy of the Vaal which is seeking to destabilise growth and progress in the area.

“While investigations are ongoing, we are concerned about the safety of other activists advocating for the same cause in the Vaal,” Khithika said.

Khithika added that they are also alarmed by allegations regarding the housing project in Ratanda, Heidelberg where rogue individuals are reportedly seeking keys by force during house allocations, despite not being on the list of approved beneficiaries for that period. Additionally, we are concerned about claims that some rogue individuals are demanding a 30% payment from contractors providing sanitation services in the majority of informal settlements, particularly in Emfuleni while disguising themselves as local SMMEs. Some have gone so far as to falsely name MMCs and councillors as their business partners.”

Khithika said the EFF views these three incidents as extortion and believes they should be confronted directly and dealt with by the law.

“Revolutionary forces will be on high alert on the ground and we will also engage with our progressive Sedibeng District Police Commissioner immediately to seek an amicable solution. We recognise that extortion is a punishable crime, and South Africa has laws that must be respected, especially concerning the growth and development of the economy.”