The Acting MEC for Local Government and Human Settlements in Bokone Bophirima, Wendy Nelson strongly condemns acts of violence and destruction of public property by some municipal workers and the community of Ramotshere Moiloa local municipality, on Tuesday afternoon.
The workers apparently took to the streets of Zeerust on Tuesday afternoon after they were called to a meeting at a local community hall by the former Mayor of Ramotshere Moiloa, Afrika Thale who was accompanied by a Senior Manager in the municipality. The group later took to the streets and started to throw and empty the dustbins onto the streets of Zeerust. At least 10 people were arrested and are expected to appear in court on charges of public violence.
“We will not allow a situation where public servants get involved in acts of violence and destruction of public amenities. Unfortunately, the law will take its course and these workers will also have to be disciplined by applying relevant policies. We will be monitoring the situation at all times and we want to ensure the residents of Ramotshere Moiloa local municipality that no services will be interrupted, people who wish to raise their dissatisfaction, they must do so within the context of the law which this Country provides. Africa Thale is no longer the Mayor of Ramotshere Moiloa local municipality and he has got no business to call the workers to a meeting. Our appeal to him is to refrain inciting the workers. The Mayor remains Councillor Simon Senna, said MEC Nelson.
Enquiries:
Ben Bole (Departmental Spokesperson)
Cell: 071 566 1399
E-mail: msbole@nwpg.gov.za
