The recent violent protests in Malamulele, Limpopo Province are an indication that consultative processes by the Demarcation Board were not effective in addressing the concerns of the community.
“The protests that we are witnessing in Malamulele clearly demonstrates that the concerns of the people have not been addressed. When the Demarcation Board embarks on a process to redefine municipal or even ward boundaries, it is important that it takes the community on board. Communities need to know that they are being engaged without any predetermined objectives and that their inputs will be considered in a fair and objective manner. The Demarcation Board must play open cards when dealing with the affected communities and be clear in its reasons for the boundary changes. It must be remembered that boundary changes will affect the daily lives of those communities and therefore they must be the key role-players in any discussions around any changes. There needs to be an extensive process of community dialogue and information sharing. The public consultation process should not be undertaken just to “tick the box” because decisions taken have far-reaching implications for the affected people”, said IFP National Chairman, Mr Blessed Gwala MPL.
“We do not condone the destruction of public property especially during these difficult economic times. The people of Malamulele have legitimate grievances and these must be addressed by the Demarcation Board after the local government elections. People still have time to register as voters at their local municipality IEC offices until such time that the election date has been gazetted. We encourage people to go out and vote in order to bring about change that will see improvements to their living conditions. The electorate have a very powerful weapon in their hands, and that is their vote. They must use that weapon to fight their battles. Once the local government elections are over, their concerns must be addressed in a peaceful and constructive manner without any hidden agendas. We need peaceful communities where people receive essential municipal services and live with dignity”, concluded Mr Gwala.
Issued by:
Mr Blessed Gwala
IFP National Chairman
078 290 5842
For Media Enquiries:
IFP Media Liaison Officer
Mr Phendulani Biyase
073 024 5675
