Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
12 December 2023 | 14:00 CAT
1-min read

The City of Johannesburg and Randwater have attributed the ongoing water crisis in Johannesburg to an increase in the use of water, especially during heatwaves. However, the alleged negligence of infrastructure maintenance appears to be the actual cause. In response to the crisis, ActionSA is considering legal action against the ANC-EFF-led coalition and plans to approach the Human Rights Commission in January.

Councillor Nobuhle Mthembu from ActionSA spoke to Radio Islam International in an interview this morning.  According to Councillor Mthembu, the water crisis is not merely a consequence of increased water usage during heatwaves, as claimed by the City of Johannesburg and Randwater. Instead, she asserts that the ANC-EFF coalition has failed to address the issue for years, dating back to 1994. The focus of the coalition on providing water tankers, costing R50 million per month, is criticised as a shortsighted approach that neglects the fundamental problem.

Councillor Mthembu contends that the coalition lacks a concrete plan for infrastructure improvement, replacement of malfunctioning pipes, and the construction of new dams to secure the city’s water supply. The interview reveals frustration with the coalition’s apparent disregard for investing in long-term solutions and prioritising political agendas over the well-being of residents.

Concerns about a flawed tender process are raised, with questions about how a city claiming revenue struggles can afford multi-million-rand expenditures on water tankers. The interview also underscores a lack of responsiveness from the coalition regarding residents’ protests and demands for transparency.

In response to the crisis, ActionSA is considering legal action and plans to approach the Human Rights Commission in January. Councillor Mthembu emphasises the importance of residents joining the cause, urging them to approach the Ombudsman and the Human Rights Commission to voice their concerns.

As Johannesburg enters an election year, Councillor Mthembu encourages residents to be vigilant and demand accountability from political candidates. The interview serves as a call to action for voters to question the coalition’s commitment to resolving critical issues, including the water crisis, and to use their voting power to bring about positive change.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.