SDM could challenge the status quo
GRAAFF-REINET - The arrival of a relatively new political player, the Service Delivery Movement (SDM), could change the local political landscape of Graaff Reinet in the upcoming local government elections in October.
This organisation has registered with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to contest the upcoming local government elections. Since its formation in 2020 the organisation, whose main objective is addressing service delivery challenges facing previously disadvantaged communities of Graaff Reinet, has been involved in a few projects to better the lives of struggling residents.
During their community engagement campaigns in Umasizakhe, Kroonvale and Vryegrond informal settlements it became obvious that the SDM has aligned itself with the real politik of the town and have welcomed the challenge of being the vanguard of the poor people’s rights in this municipality.
The question remains though: are the communities of Graaff Reinet ready for the new kid on the block?
According to a quick survey conducted by a community-based news agency, ZB Newz, residents of Graaff- Reinet share mixed feelings over the new party. Some feel the SDM has come at an opportune time to put pressure on the ruling ANC whilst some feel it’s another plot by opportunistic individuals who want to grab seats in the council.
Umasizakhe resident Mzwandile Mongo says, “The SDM came at the right time to ensure that the ruling party does not have a free ride as service delivery is nonexistent in most communities.”
Alfred Koopman of Vryegrond informal settlements feels that, “all these political parties just want our votes to get in council and after that they forget about us”.
The public will decide in October if the movement is a solution to the challenges faced by these communities 28 years into democracy. To sum up the vision of the SDM Interim Treasurer and Spokesperson, Amos Mncinga, “The SDM’s main objectives is to ensure that the authorities are held accountable and efficient service delivery is given to the people in previously disadvantaged communities of Umasizakhe, Kroonvale, Asherville and informal settlements in town.”