THABONG – The Democratic Alliance (DA) has accused the ANC-led Matjhabeng Local Municipality of failing to invest adequately in basic infrastructure, following an oversight visit to Ward 22 in Thabong.

According to DA mayoral candidate and councillor Piet Botha, several roads in the ward have deteriorated to the point where they are difficult to access, which he said reflects broader shortcomings in service delivery across the municipality.

Botha claimed that Matjhabeng currently has only one road grader available for maintenance work and alleged that the machine is out of service. He further stated that mechanics have not yet been appointed to repair the grader and that the municipality faces diesel shortages affecting its fleet.

He argued that the situation would result in delays to road maintenance and negatively affect residents who rely on the road network for daily transport.

The condition of our roads has a direct impact on residents’ quality of life

“The condition of our roads has a direct impact on residents’ quality of life and on the local economy,” Botha said. “Businesses are less likely to invest in areas where basic infrastructure is neglected.”

The DA is calling on the municipality to disclose how much has been allocated in the current budget to expand and maintain its yellow fleet, as well as the funding available for fuel to ensure that road maintenance equipment remains operational.

Botha further criticised what he described as the municipality’s spending priorities, alleging that insufficient resources are being directed towards essential service delivery.

He said the DA believes that improving infrastructure and maintaining municipal equipment should be among the municipality’s highest priorities.

At the time of publication, Matjhabeng Local Municipality had not responded to the DA’s allegations. Its comment will be included once received.

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