The Free State Shutdown Movement in the Mangaung region is planning a complete lockdown of several towns in the province on Wednesday (11/9) due to lack of services by municipalities, a deficient health system and a host of other issues.
“At least 27 towns are closing,” said Potso Motoko, chairman of the Mangaung Service Delivery Forum, adding that various organizations and community members are organizing the closure.
The aim is to show the frustration of residents with the nepotism and corruption of municipalities, which has led to poor service delivery and suffering communities.
Mangaung Metro Municipality. Photo: Katleho Morapela
“Mangaung Metro Municipality (MMM) employees will be at work and the municipality will continue to operate as normal. The closure does not pose a threat to the municipality and the MMM is working with the South African Police Service to ensure the safety of the community,” said metro spokesperson Qondile Khedama.
They want to ensure that their demands are met and “that the president takes our plight seriously,” said Tumelo Mafereka, secretary of the Shutdown Movement. “We are demanding jobs for all, housing and property deeds, clean and reliable drinking water… effective service delivery, hiring of security guards, professional nurses, community health workers and support for early childhood development centres, among others.
“The programs we implement will continue until we achieve economic stability, jobs for our communities and effective service delivery,” he added.
Qondile Khedama, spokesperson for Mangaung Metro Municipality. Photo: Bloemfontein Courant
The movement also accused the government of nepotism in appointing civil servants. Meanwhile, “our health system is collapsing; we have a shortage of doctors, cleaners and porters. Our people are angry and are demanding change,” he added.
Mafereka also warned those who protect drug dealers, illegal immigrants, foreigners working in professions that do not require skills scarcity, companies selling illegal products and government and municipal officials involved in nepotism and corruption.
“We are prepared to die for our freedom and in defense of our province. If you accept protection money from foreigners and criminals and dare to stop the closure, know that we will hunt you down, even after it is over.”
The movement is asking everyone to inform their employees, students, tenants, neighbors and others about the planned action.
OFM News/Heidrè Malgas my god
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