The meeting, repeatedly called for by the community leaders, mostly from informal settlements in KwaNonqaba, were attended by Executive Mayor Mossel Bay Alderlady Marie Ferreira, her Mayoral Committee, the Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz, and Executive Directors of the municipality. Representatives of the taxi industry were also present.
From the onset of the discussions, although the atmosphere was still tense, it was made clear by mediators selected from local clergy, that the talks should not become politicised.
In opening the proceedings, Bishop Peter Shilder, one of the religious leaders selected to act as mediator, made the claim that Mossel Bay could set the tone and an example for the rest of the country in which service delivery problems can be resolved amicably.
It was reiterated by various community representatives, in taking their turns to raise concerns, that the nature of the protest action was non-political. They also expressed their sincere appreciation for the opportunity to meet with the Executive Mayor.
The discussions seemed to have been hugely participative in terms of issues being raised by the community leaders, but without having to quote each individual, it is quite clear that the disgruntlement sparked by an issue regarding the illegal usage of electricity is but the tip of the iceberg.
Concerns mentioned include electricity and water supply in KwaNonqaba; the absence of adequate sanitation and the allocation thereof to multiple families; sanitation amenities situated far from homes in poorly lit and densely vegetated areas, causing a safety risk; poor
management of sewerage overflow in certain areas; the former leasing of farming land, which is now apparently being revoked without an alternative option given; and the deduction of arrears from pre-paid electricity.
Leaders mentioned repeatedly that they had sent petitions and memorandums to the municipality and requested audience to discuss their issues - some for the past eight years. However, in the municipality's defence, proof was provided during the meeting of most of the mutual correspondence in the past couple of years.
Ultimately, in summary, the constant cry ringing out from each community contributor during Thursday's discussion was for decent human living conditions, which is related to service delivery issues.
Since Thursday, follow-up discussions have taken place between the municipality and community leaders on Friday, 15 August and Tuesday, 19 August, with the municipality's written resolve hand delivered on Wednesday afternoon to Bongani Swartbooi, representative of the Greater KwaNonqaba Development Forum, for further discussion.
According to the municipal spokesperson, Harry Hill, a date and venue for further deliberation is still to be determined.
Click here for a related article.
This shop was not spared during the protest action last week. Photo: Dave van der Merwe
ARTICLE: CORNELLE CARSTENS, MOSSEL BAY ADVERTISER JOURNALIST
'We bring you the latest Mossel Bay, Garden Route news'
