Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Karina van Zyl
The Democratic Alliance (DA) calls for urgent intervention in Leeudoringstad, Maquassi Hills Local Municipality, where the continued failure to repair non-functional streetlights has left the town in near-total darkness.
Despite four formal written enquiries submitted to the Municipal Manager since December 2025, no response has been received; a silence that reflects a disturbing disregard for the safety and wellbeing of residents.
Currently, fewer than 10% of streetlights in Leeudoringstad are operational. As a result, entire neighbourhoods are left without lighting at night (see photos here, here, and here), creating a climate of fear and exposing residents to heightened levels of crime, including burglaries and vandalism.
The impact of this failure extends far beyond safety concerns. Critical infrastructure, including electrical cables and substations, has been increasingly targeted and damaged, placing additional financial strain on the municipality.
Residents have also reported incidents of animal poisoning and ongoing invasions of private property, contributing to widespread anxiety within the community.
During recent community engagements under the Thuntsa Lerole programme, new streetlights were installed. However, these installations have failed to function, further deepening frustration among residents who were initially hopeful for relief.
Explanations provided by municipal officials, including references to cable faults and a lack of essential equipment such as a cherry picker, highlight a lack of planning, capacity, and urgency in addressing this crisis. Even attempts by residents to assist, including offers to purchase replacement globes, have not resulted in progress.
The DA therefore demands urgent clarity on:
- Why the streetlights remain non-operational
- Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance
- A clear timeline for restoring lighting across Leeudoringstad
Access to basic services such as street lighting is not a privilege but a fundamental right to community safety and dignity.
The continued inaction by the municipality is unacceptable. The DA will continue to escalate this matter and hold those responsible accountable until lighting is restored and residents can feel safe in their own community.