On October 20, residents gathered at Ikageng Stadium, Potchefstroom, eager to voice their grievances to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was visiting North West to assess government commitments from his March 2022 presidential Imbizo. Despite promises to address water shortages, crime, and failing infrastructure, residents reported no significant improvements. Corruption and poor management persist, with billions of rand in irregular expenditure. The Ministry of Finance even withheld R60 million from JB Marks Municipality due to substandard performance.
Local testimonials highlighted ongoing problems with water and electricity, youth unemployment, and corruption in education. Acting North West Prime Minister Nono Maloyi claimed 80% of issues raised have been resolved and mentioned plans for prepaid meters to tackle unpaid services. Several government projects, including Operation Bulela Metsi and Operation Thunsta Tsela, aim to address these challenges.
However, critics like Professor Kedibone Phago viewed the Imbizo as a thinly veiled ANC campaign, stressing the need for genuine solutions over political maneuvering.
Original Source: Daily Maverick
Date: 2023-10-22 23:03:57
www.dailymaverick.co.za