“Koebaai!” Is that really a fair response to people who have taken the trouble to challenge the wisdom of the powers that be?
On the eve of a national election, when South Africa’s hard-earned democracy enjoys focus again, I cannot let D du Toit have the last word. In Paarl Post of 15 February 2024 the writer suggests those complaining about development in Paarl should move north, where things are falling apart.
The infrastructure in the Western and Southern Cape could easily follow suit. Already our schools are over-subscribed, our beaches battling pollution, our valleys losing tourist appeal…, due partially to unbridled semigration and ill-considered town planning.
Failed infrastructure in Paarl, and the Western Cape generally, would be one thing. Things could get much worse: Our very democracy could fall apart were it to end at the voting station, were the elected party and officials given carte blanche in decision-making and residents expected to like it, lump it or leave.
Yes, Paarl’s municipality, Drakenstein (DM), compares well with other municipalities on several fronts. However, far better development outcomes could be achieved if concerns raised by interested and affected parties during the public-participation process and in the media were to be taken seriously. What is the point of participation processes if decisions are taken unilaterally?
I encourage readers to vote on 29 May 2024 and to hold elected parties and their representatives accountable for all their actions, ruthlessly and relentlessly. To do this is not only our democratic right as South Africans but our democratic duty.
I look forward to bumping into other readers on 29 May, and to seeing their perpetual “gesanik” in the Paarl Post when things go wrong.
