The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have announced plans to tackle the water crisis in Makhanda, South Africa, by prioritizing the completion of the James Kleynhans Dam. According to Mzamo Booysen, PR councillor and chief whip, the dam is the main source of water for the entire Makhanda area. The EFF aims to ensure that every citizen has access to clean water, a basic need. The party has vowed to address the normalization of Grahamstown water not being drinkable or available.
In terms of electricity, the EFF plans to implement a new iron street light design with camera installation. The party also intends to employ more law enforcement officers to conduct night patrols, reducing cable theft and vandalism. This move is expected to improve safety, particularly for students who use library facilities late at night. The EFF believes that students should feel safe walking on well-lit roads without fear of crime.
The EFF has identified road maintenance as a priority, particularly the road to Alicedale, which is crucial for learner transport. The party also plans to prioritize roads to Riebeeck East and roads within Makhanda. The EFF aims to ensure that road maintenance work is done properly, not temporarily, to provide lasting and functional roads for all wards. This move is expected to improve transportation and access to essential services.
The EFF also plans to address waste management and landfill issues in Makhanda. The party intends to implement litter picking programs using personnel from the Expanded Public Works Programme, Community Work Programme, and Social Employment Fund. A brick wall and electric fence will be built to prevent illegal entry and mitigate crime. The EFF aims to keep Makhanda clean and safe.
In terms of municipal finances, the EFF plans to implement a system that keeps proper records to address irregular expenditure. The party aims to ensure transparency within leadership and with its constituencies. Every EFF councillor candidate is mandated to meet their constituency quarterly to inform them of financial decisions made and budgets allocated for services. The EFF strives for accountability and transparency.
The EFF also plans to review the findings of the Special Investigating Unit and take action against officials who acted improperly. The party aims to ensure that those implicated face the full might of the law. The EFF believes that the public deserves to know about these findings, particularly if municipal officials are involved. The party is committed to accountability and investigations.
Finally, the EFF plans to abolish tenders and build state capacity by insourcing municipal workers. The party aims to eliminate the private sector middleman and keep municipal funds within the community. The EFF also plans to support salary increments as legislated by labour law, but not performance bonuses for underperforming managers or directors. The party is committed to discipline and accountability.
Key points
- The EFF plans to prioritize the completion of the James Kleynhans Dam to address the water crisis in Makhanda.
- The party aims to implement new iron street lights with camera installation to improve safety and reduce crime.
- The EFF plans to abolish tenders and build state capacity by insourcing municipal workers to improve service delivery.
