Yesterday, the DA in Lephalale laid criminal charges against the Municipal Manager, Ms. Nogilana-Raphela and Executive Manager for Infrastructure, Mr. Shiko, for failure to address the ongoing sewage spills in Mopane Estate.
The Lephalale Local Municipality is the responsible authority for the sewerage system in the municipality.
A case in terms of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998), and the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) was opened.
Residents of Ward 15, more specifically those residing in Mopane Estate, have been living in ponds of raw sewage surrounding and flooding their homes since December 2024.
Street surfaces also have been damaged by the persistent sewage build-up.
Residents report overflowing sewage almost on a daily basis , but was met with apathy of the ANC ward councillor.
The municipality has failed to adequately address the sewage challenges and find long-term solutions. The standard response from the municipality is always that there are more pressing issues to attend to.
Residents are faced with imminent health risks and the smell is unbearable. (See photos here, here and here)
We will also submit a complaint to the Human Rights Commission in terms of section 24 of The Constitution which guarantees the right to a safe, clean and healthy environment.
The DA will not sit back and allow the ANC leadership in the municipality violate the rights and dignity of Lephalale residents with impunity.
We will follow up regularly with investigating officers and prosecutors on the progress in our case to ensure that those who show disdain for the law be held accountable.