The DA held a picket in Komani yesterday, September 14 to hand over a memorandum with action steps for the troubled Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality.
They are also calling in the help of Executive Mayor of the Kouga Local Municipality, Horatio Hendricks, to advise them on turning things around for the town of Komani.
According to Enoch Mgijima Constituency Leader Jane Cowley, Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality has collapsed to such an extent that it is now little more than a failed local state, unable to discharge its responsibilities and function properly.
She said Enoch Mgijima is home to possibly the biggest economy in the Eastern Cape hinterland, yet the municipality has failed to create an enabling environment to attract investment.
“Businesses are folding, families are leaving, properties stand empty, and jobs are being shed,” said Cowley.
She further said basic services have all collapsed.
“Electricity infrastructure is dilapidated, municipal vehicles have been auctioned off to pay creditors, tender processes to secure service providers are riddled with irregularities and regular billing for municipal rates no longer exists,” said Cowley.
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During the picket in Komani the DA submitted a memorandum to the Speaker and Chief Whip of council containing action steps which they believe are crucial to the survival of not only Komani, but all surrounding villages, whose survival depends on this town succeeding.
“These steps include the ring fencing and regular payment of the Eskom current account and debt; the immediate reinstating of regular and accurate billing of rates; the revival of basic municipal services and a forensic audit into all financial irregularities, with concomitant and appropriate consequence management for offenders,” said Cowley.
She further said they will engage with Hendricks to promote best practice and they will continue to make recommendations that, if implemented, will turn the fortunes of Enoch Mgijima around.
