The Democratic Alliance (DA) has raised serious concerns about the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Health Services department’s alarming failure to protect citizens’ health and safety.
A recent council report revealed shocking shortcomings in critical health monitoring targets for the period July to September 2025. The data paints a disturbing picture of systematic negligence in essential public health responsibilities.
Key findings demonstrate significant gaps in crucial health inspections:
• Only 39 out of 51 planned milk samples were collected
• Water monitoring inspections dropped from a target of 5 to merely 3
• Food premise inspections achieved just 33% of their intended target
• Childcare facility and learning institution inspections reached only 37% compliance
The situation becomes even more critical when considering the district’s compromised wastewater treatment infrastructure. With most treatment plants either collapsed or dysfunctional, there’s an elevated risk of water resource contamination, potentially exposing residents to serious health hazards.
The DA is particularly alarmed that the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality appears unable to guarantee basic public health standards. The systematic failure in conducting comprehensive health inspections directly threatens community well-being.
Marius Marais, DA councillor for Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality in Bethlehem, says there is an urgent need for accountability. “We cannot compromise on public health,” Marais stated.
“These inspection failures represent more than statistical shortcomings—they represent real risks to our community’s safety.”
The organisation will continue pressuring local management to implement comprehensive health monitoring protocols and restore public confidence in the district’s health services.
