Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Setswana by Kopano Gaebee
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mahikeng is outraged by the disgraceful conditions under which residents of Montshioa and Unit 1 (Ward 8) are forced to live due to years of government neglect and mismanagement.
Many of the Bophuthatswana-built homes in the ward still contain dangerous asbestos materials, posing a serious health hazard and long-term risk to residents. To make matters worse, many families still do not have title deeds to their homes, denying them the basic security and dignity that comes with home ownership. (see photos here, here, and here)
The DA will elevate this matter to the North West Provincial Legislature, demanding urgent answers and action from the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA).
Specifically, we call for:
- A funded, time-bound plan to remove asbestos from all affected homes in Montshioa and Unit 1; and
- A clear programme to issue title deeds to residents without further delay.
If government fails to respond within a reasonable timeframe, the DA will escalate this matter to relevant bodies as a direct human rights violation.
The people of Ward 8 deserve safe, dignified living conditions and accountable governance. Anything less is a betrayal.