Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English by Orapeleng Moremedi
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Orkney notes with serious concern the continued collapse of basic service delivery, with pothole-riddled roads and raw sewage flowing through streets becoming a daily reality in several parts of the town.
These conditions are not only unacceptable but dangerous, undignified and a direct threat to public health and safety. Deep potholes are damaging vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents and making roads unsafe for motorists, pedestrians and emergency services (see photos here and here). At the same time, sewer spillages running openly through streets and residential areas expose residents, particularly children and the elderly, to serious health risks, including waterborne diseases (see photo here).
Residents are forced to live with foul odours, contaminated environments and deteriorating living conditions, while still being expected to pay rates and service charges for services that are not delivered.
This ongoing neglect carries serious consequences for the municipality, including escalating infrastructure repair costs due to delayed maintenance, declining public trust in local government, reduced property values, diminished investment and economic activity, and potential legal and environmental liabilities.
The DA in Matlosana has called on the municipality to urgently prioritise the repair of potholes and the resolution of sewer spillages in Orkney. These are not cosmetic issues, but basic service delivery obligations that directly affect residents’ health, safety and dignity.
The situation points to poor planning, weak maintenance programmes and a lack of accountability. Temporary and reactive fixes are no longer acceptable. Residents require clear repair and maintenance schedules, immediate intervention on sewer spillages, proper monitoring of contractors, and transparent communication on timelines and progress.
The Democratic Alliance believes that communities deserve functional infrastructure, clean environments and responsive local government. Orkney residents cannot continue to live in conditions that reflect neglect and mismanagement.
The DA will continue to raise these issues through Council, oversight structures and community engagement until real action replaces empty promises. Service delivery is not a favour, it is a right.