The Department of Local Government and housing regrets the malicious intentions to mislead the public by those opposed to government programmes. This morning we were informed of a protest in Everton and on enquiring we found it to be about four houses whose inhabitants were being evicted (last might, 22 July 2010) by the Sherriff accompanied by the police.
We are of the view that every protest as long as it is peaceful is necessary to ensure that the public can raise their voices against lack of services. However, we denounce violence and misleading reports making us believe that every protest is a service delivery protest. It is important that the media also assist us with accurate reports and not misleading reports.
This is the second time it happens in a very short space of time. On the day President Jacob Zuma visited Sweetwaters to hand out houses we were informed that there is a service delivery protest at Eldorado Park, which never took place. But one person looking for publicity spoke on radio that they were protesting against lack of services; again information found to be misleading. We know that as local government elections draw closer there will be an increase in service delivery protests. We know that they will increase because they have potential to make their organisers famous very quickly because of media attention. We do not have a problem with that but at least the media reports should be accurate and fair.
For more information please contact:Fred Mokoko
Cell: 082 447 8407
Tel: 011 355 4013
E-mail: Fred.Mokoko@gauteng.gov.za
