Matjhabeng – A formal complaint has been written to the Human Rights Commission (HRC) regarding the ongoing failure of service delivery due to alleged overtime disputes.
Matjhabeng residents have been left in a state of crisis following an instruction given to workers to effectively abandon their after hour duties and obligations.
Estelle Dansey, DA councillor in the Matjhabeng Local Municipality, says the effects of this dispute have been far-reaching and devastating, leaving many without power for extended periods, with some experiencing outages for over five days.
“Those dependent on oxygen have been particularly vulnerable. In one instance a live electrical cable fell to the ground, leaving residents in danger. The cable was only repaired when the workweek resumed, making children playing in the streets especially vulnerable,” says Dansey.
Some residents have gone without water for over two weeks, with no resolution in sight. Despite numerous reports, no answers were provided to councillors or residents.
When emergencies arise, residents are unable to obtain assistance, and officials are unresponsive, as even ward councillors struggle to reach officials during emergencies.
“Due to the number of electrical and water issues experienced over weekends, once the workweek resumes, the teams face an enormous backlog, which further delays the restoration time of essential services. The residents of Matjhabeng deserve better.”
The municipality must take immediate action to ensure effective communication, restore essential services and prioritise the restoration of electricity and water services to affected residents. The municipality must also provide emergency assistance and ensure that residents have access to assistance during emergencies, particularly over weekends.
“The situation in Matjhabeng demands urgent attention. The municipality must take responsibility for providing basic services and ensuring the well-being of its residents,” she says.
