DA lays criminal charges against Sol
THE DA has laid criminal charges against Sol Plaatje Municipality for the alleged mismanagement of funds while residents continue to experience water cuts and poor service delivery.
DA councillor Ockie Fourie stated that residents were denied access to basic services.
“The SAPS must investigate mismanagement of funds allocated for repairs and maintenance of bulk infrastructure in terms of the Municipal Finance Management Act. R500 million was allocated in 2021, with an additional R1.9 billion allocated in 2023. But the situation is worsening rather than improving, raising questions about misappropriation and criminal misuse of money meant to deliver services,” said Fourie.
He pointed out that at least 11 planned and emergency water shutdowns have been implemented in the city since November 2021, including five emergency shutdowns from October 2023 to January 2024.
“In addition, there are daily and nightly water interruptions where residents are effectively left without access to water for 14 hours per day. As the cost of living continues to increase and with the high unemployment rate, ordinary residents cannot afford to keep buying water.
“The unreliable water supply also makes it unnecessarily hard for businesses, schools, clinics, and care facilities for the elderly or persons with disabilities.”
Police spokesperson Lieutenant-colonel Sergio Kock confirmed that the Kimberley SAPS was investigating a case of alleged contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act, pertaining to the alleged misappropriation of funds related to the improvement of the water supply in the Sol Plaatje Municipality between November 2012 and January 2024.
“No arrests have been effected, however, anyone with information can contact Detective Warrant Officer Gouvea on 082 495 4646. The investigation continues,” added Kock.