The DA in Lephalale welcomes the repainting of faded road markings and speed humps by the municipality, an effort that comes only after sustained pressure from the DA and active involvement from concerned residents.
For months, the DA has highlighted the poor state of Lephalale’s road markings and the danger this poses to motorists and pedestrians. Despite repeated requests, the municipality showed a lack of urgency for public safety by failing to maintain the road surface. View photos here, here and here.
In response to this neglect, DA aspirant candidate, Leo Klusmann, launched a community project to repaint speed humps and faded road markings across town. This initiative resulted in several speed humps and road markings being restored, directly improving visibility and safety. View photos here, here and here.
Instead of welcoming this community-driven effort, the Municipality went on the defensive, instructing Mr. Klusmann to stop painting and to “report” areas needing attention. Instead of embracing community participation in addressing local problems, officials felt threatened by residents who were stepping up to do what the municipality had long neglected.
Ironically, soon after these visible community efforts gained attention, the municipality started repainting the markings— a clear sign that public accountability and DA persistence deliver results.
While the DA welcomes this progress, we also expect maintenance to be carried out in Marapong and other areas where faded markings, worn speed humps, and unsafe intersections remain widespread. Road safety must be a priority across the entire municipality, not only in selected areas.
The DA will:
- Monitor the progress and quality of the Municipality’s repainting programme;
- Table questions in Council to confirm the budget, schedule, and coverage of the work being done; and
- Continue supporting residents who take initiative to uplift their communities despite the municipality’s lack of urgency.
The DA believes that good governance means working with residents, not against them. Lephalale deserves leadership that values cooperation over control, accountability over arrogance, and action over excuses.