Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Setswana by Nelio Nhacuangue
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has formally written to the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC), requesting an urgent investigation into the Marikana Sidewalk Project’s status, the reasons for its delay or abandonment, and a full breakdown of how the allocated funds have been spent. (See letter here)
The DA in Rustenburg is deeply concerned about the abandonment of the Marikana Sidewalk Project, which was allocated R10 million through the Neighbourhood Development Partnership Grant (NDPG).
This incomplete project has left open pits along the roadway, posing a severe danger to motorists and pedestrians. Reports indicate that several vehicles have already fallen into these hazardous trenches, further highlighting the municipality’s failure to manage public infrastructure projects effectively. (See video here)
Section 79A of the Municipal Structures Act, 1998, empowers MPAC to oversee financial accountability and request investigations into mismanaged municipal projects. We expect MPAC to use its oversight powers to hold those responsible to account and ensure transparency regarding the use of public funds.
The DA demands the following from the Rustenburg Local Municipality:
1. An urgent report on the current status of the Marikana Sidewalk Project.
2. A full breakdown of the R10 million NDPG budget allocation and its expenditure.
3. A clear timeline for when the project will be completed.
4. Immediate measures to prevent further safety risks to residents and road users.
Should the municipality fail to provide satisfactory responses, the DA will escalate this matter to the Auditor-General and the National Treasury for further investigation.
The DA remains committed to holding the municipality accountable and ensuring that public funds are spent transparently and effectively to improve service delivery for the people of Rustenburg.