As the Local Government Elections approached, residents and candidates in Ward 12 highlighted pressing concerns affecting both urban and rural communities. Water shortages, corruption, high unemployment, inadequate public transport, and unequal access to basic services were central to discussions about the ward's future. These challenges have become a focal point for candidates, including Simphiwe Mnyande, a former Rhodes University Student Representative Council president, who is contesting the ward as a candidate for the Makana United Civic Movement.
Mnyande's entry into local politics is driven by a desire to prioritize competence, skills, and service delivery. He draws inspiration from former South African leaders like Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and Chris Hani, who faced opposition while fighting for justice. Mnyande believes that tackling municipal corruption and ensuring fiscal accountability are crucial to solving the town's water shortages. He argues that effective use of funds can address the water crisis, emphasizing that Rhodes University's struggles are inseparable from Makhanda's wider crises.
The Democratic Alliance party agent, Allen Wayer, notes that Ward 12 has undergone significant changes following recent demarcation, with the inclusion of Seven Fountains being a major shift. Rural communities in the area face distinct hardships, including long distances to municipal offices, neglected roads, and poor water infrastructure. Wayer stresses that these issues deserve equal attention to urban problems. Unemployment is another challenge he identifies, but he adds that the DA is being realistic about what the municipality can achieve.
For residents, everyday struggles shape their expectations. Amandla Mntu, a Rhodes University student, describes her outlook as cautiously neutral, avoiding high expectations due to Makhanda's long-standing water crisis. Transport and online access are critical in rural areas like Seven Fountains. Zola Mjadu, an Economic Freedom Fighters coordinator, notes that residents struggle to afford or access transport into town. The EFF plans to engage the Department of Transport to establish viable taxi routes.
The EFF also highlights political gatekeeping around services, including restricted access to a neighboring private nature reserve's Wi-Fi network, allegedly due to party affiliation. Mjadu emphasizes that the EFF is committed to delivering community support without partisan bias. Amanda Ntlaki, an unemployed Seven Fountains resident, recounts missing job interviews due to erratic transport and reliance on hitchhiking. She urges officials to establish a dedicated taxi rank and direct routes.
Ntlaki criticizes municipal patronage, where contracts and jobs are awarded through personal connections rather than merit. She wishes for people to be employed based on their qualifications. Current ANC Ward 12 councillor Mzobanzi Nkwentsha responds that ANC policies focus on spatial justice and integrated public transport. He argues that the ANC has continually worked to reverse historical neglect and insists that infrastructure in Ward 12 has improved under their tenure.
Nkwentsha disputes criticism over service delivery, stating that anyone who claims it has worsened is misleading society. The concerns raised by residents and candidates highlight the complexities of addressing the challenges faced by Ward 12. The discussions emphasize the need for effective solutions to issues like water shortages, corruption, and unemployment. Residents and candidates stress the importance of prioritizing competence and service delivery in local government.
Key points
- Candidates and residents in Ward 12 emphasize the need to address water shortages, corruption, and unemployment.
- The area faces challenges in rural communities, including poor infrastructure and limited access to basic services.
- Effective solutions require prioritizing competence and service delivery in local government.
