VEREENIGING – “We pay for sevices, but we are not getting any service.”

So says a frustrated Duncanville resident after locals dumped uncollected rubbish at the entrance of the Vereeniging Civic Centre on Wednesday morning.

Watch the video here:

Residents say refuse in parts of Vereeniging has not been collected for nearly three months.

Tensions flared as bags were not only dumped but also torn open, blocking the main entrance.

“We’re gatvol,” said Nelmarie Ruysch. “People are forced to hire private contractors to remove rubbish while still paying the municipality for the service. It’s unacceptable.”

Another resident, Andries Louw, alleged municipal workers were spotted drinking alcohol while on duty with a refuse truck. “What kind of oversight is that? It’s pathetic,” he said.

A municipal official who addressed the crowd blamed the crisis on a lack of operational trucks. Residents, however, were not satisfied and demanded accountability.

Ward councillor Elize Aucamp described the protest as “a cry for help,” while fellow councillor Dalene Venter questioned how the municipality can expect people to pay for services that are simply not delivered.

As the summit discussed lofty plans for revenue growth and public-private partnerships, residents on the street demanded just one thing: basic service.