Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Maritha Coetzee
The last time French drains were sucked in Hartbeesfontein was in April and for some residence, as far back as December. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has requested the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) as well as the Municipal Manager (MM) to pay contractors so that this service can commence.
The Bill of Rights in South Africa, enshrined in Chapter 2 of the Constitution, guarantees fundamental human rights for all citizens, which include rights like life, equality, dignity, freedom, and privacy, among others. The council is obligated to respect, protect, promote, and fulfil these rights.
Everyone has inherent dignity and the right to have their dignity respected and protected. Living in an environment where sewer constantly runs through your property is no dignity at all.
The municipality is failing to meet its financial commitments, which affects its ability to procure services, and as a result, residents suffer immensely.
The DA expects the MM, CFO, and Department of Water and Sanitation to immediately resolve this problem since they are acutely aware of the situation.
Under DA governance, residents will be respected and their dignity protected.