MAKWASSIE Hills local municipality mayor, Gaamangwe Kgabi promised to address grievances raised by residents of Kgakala Township near Leeudoringstad.

The community is expected to embark again on a protest today (Thursday) over poor basic service delivery.

The residents submitted their memorandum of grievances last week and expected to get answers soon.

“I want to confirm that there are many projects that are underway in the area. We have also employed people from the Kgakala area. We are trying so hard as the municipality to eradicate unemployment, poverty and inequality. Most of our youth do not have matric certificates, but they want to form part of internships.

“There were projects that were ran before and we also encourage unemployed youth to come to our offices and fill up indigent forms. We also addressing issues of those who come from impoverished backgrounds,” Kgabi said.

Residents allege that the local municipality failed to create job opportunities for unemployed youth.

One of community leaders, Moyane Mohanoe said: “Most of our youth are unemployed. Municipality failed us and there are projects taking place in our area. Those who are employed on those projects are politically connected.

“So we want the municipality to eliminate nepotism and maladministration. Corruption is striving at the municipality. They expect us to pay for services like electricity and water.”

Another community leader, Papiki Makhobe said unemployment was caused by political patronage. He said only those who are related to politicians benefit from tenders and projects.

“Political interests are dominating in this area. Political affiliation is taken in to consideration in terms of employment. Only the selected few rise above these issues,” Makhobe said.

More than 20 people were arrested during a protest last week. They were charged with public violence after they looted foreign-owned tuckshops.

They appeared in Wolmaransstad Magistrate’s Court last week and only 15 suspects were granted R800 bail each. Others were remanded in custody after they have other pending cases against them.

-TDN

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