The ANC in the Western Cape has responded to the recent oversight visit by the DA to Knysna Municipality, accusing the opposition party of exploiting the water and refuse collection crisis for political gain.
The ANC alleges that the DA’s actions are driven by an attempt to appeal to its white voter base, rather than a genuine concern for addressing the service delivery challenges faced by residents.
Accusations of Election Campaigning
ANC Western Cape spokesperson Khalid Sayed criticized the DA, asserting that the oversight visit was merely a part of an “election campaign.”
According to Sayed, the ANC had initially acknowledged the issues faced by Knysna residents and sought assistance from the Western Cape Government through coalition mayor Aubrey Tsengwa.
Sayed accuses the DA-led province of seizing the opportunity to exploit public frustration for electoral gains.
Claims of Lack of Interest in Municipal Assistance
Sayed further alleges that DA Premier Candidate Alan Winde is not genuinely interested in assisting the municipality but is obsessed with putting it under administration.
According to Sayed, Winde’s two-day visit was primarily aimed at appeasing white DA voters and assuring them of his commitment to placing the municipality under administration.
The ANC contends that this approach neglects the needs of poor Knysna residents.
Counterargument from the DA
In response to the ANC’s accusations, DA Western Cape Premier Candidate Alan Winde counters that the ANC-led coalition, including the EFF, PA, and PBI, has mismanaged the Knysna Municipality.
Winde claims that the municipality is facing financial mismanagement issues, currently under investigation by the Public Protector.
He points out a clerical error that resulted in residents paying rates and taxes twice, emphasizing that the ANC’s coalition of corruption has failed to address these crucial matters.
Service Delivery Challenges and Municipal Response
Sayed emphasizes that the council, in collaboration with the administration, is actively working to resolve the service delivery challenges faced by Knysna residents.
He calls on communities to assist the municipality by reporting vandalism, which is identified as a significant cause of disruptions in service delivery.
Conclusion: Dueling Narratives
The political tension in Knysna unfolds with the ANC and DA presenting contrasting narratives.
While the ANC accuses the DA of exploiting the crisis for political purposes, the DA counters by pointing to alleged mismanagement and corruption within the ANC-led coalition.
As the situation continues, the focus remains on addressing the pressing service delivery challenges and the broader implications for the residents of Knysna.
Politics
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