In a symbolic act of protest against the severe decay of roads in the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, branches of the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) in Secunda planted a tree in a pothole in PDP Kruger Street this past weekend.
This specific pothole has been a thorn in motorists’ flesh for months, despite being repeatedly reported to the Municipality.
Councillors frequently submit reports on the terrible condition of road infrastructure.
The party itself has written several official letters about the pothole problem to the Mayor, Nhlakanipho Zuma, and the Municipal Manager, Elliot Maseko; but nothing is done about it.
It seems the Mayor is too busy focusing on his so-called “Ijima Lokuhlwengiso” projects in Embalenhle, eMzinoni, and Ward 14, where a by-election will soon take place.
Municipal resources and workers are employed there to boost the ANC’s election campaign, while other towns are left to fend for themselves.
If potholes are repaired, the repair work is of such poor quality that new potholes form in no time.
Meanwhile, residents have to shell out to repair their vehicles’ damaged tyres, rims and chasses while doing everything in their power to avoid accidents.
The Freedom Front Plus insists that the Municipality immediately implement a sustainable action plan to repair all the roads in the towns it is meant to serve and ensure that resources are allocated fairly.
The Mayor has to stop serving only the ANC’s interests and start fulfilling his duty towards all residents.
