The EFF in the Northern Cape have raised an alarm over the whereabouts and utilisation of the provincial government’s new R98 million “Yellow Fleet,” claiming the machinery has been sitting idle since its recent high-profile launch.
ALSO READ: Northern Cape launches R98 million road blitz to restore Kimberley’s pride
In a statement released on 14 August the EFF claimed that the entire fleet, purchased with public funds to repair potholes and maintain gravel roads, is currently parked at the Frances Baard District Municipality offices rather than being deployed to the city’s deteriorating streets.
Shadrack Tlhaole, provincial leader, expressed concern that this latest investment is following a pattern of “maladministration” and “costly optics.” The party pointed out that a previous R28 million fleet launched in 2011 reportedly failed to fix a single pothole in the five years following its unveiling.
The party is demanding a public accounting of the fleet’s maintenance, fuel, and staffing budgets, threatening to involve the Auditor-General (AG) if no satisfactory explanation is provided.
Premier appears surprised by claim of machines being stationary
The controversy comes at a time of transition for the provincial leadership. Premier Dr Zamani Saul recently announced a cabinet reshuffle following the resignation of Fufe Makatong, MEC for Roads and Public Works, appointing Bentley Vass to the portfolio.
ALSO READ: NC premier reshuffles cabinet amid infrastructure issues and road project scandals
During a media briefing, Saul was asked about the status of the brand-new machinery and allegations that it was standing still while major intersections, such as the N12 and Cecil Sussman Street, remain “huge” and dangerous for motorists.
The premier initially appeared surprised by the claim that the machines were stationary, stating “that’s not right.” He maintained that there are “teams which are working” as part of the provincial road programme. Saul emphasised that he intends to “intensify” the fight against potholes under the new MEC’s leadership.
Addressing broader concerns about infrastructure and service delivery, Saul highlighted a massive R25 billion infrastructure rollout plan intended for the next four years, with R4,3 billion earmarked for the current financial year.
Responding to allegations of political interference in the department, he said: “Where there is areas of weaknesses, I must intervene as the premier,” he said, invoking the famous phrase, “The buck stops here.”
