The Democratic Alliance (DA) is urging the Eastern Cape Provincial Government to take immediate action following yet another residents’ protest in the small town of Ngcobo, located in the Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality.
Ngcobo experienced a shutdown today as a result of a protest organised by the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO). They accuse the municipality of corruption, fraud, money laundering, nepotism, and misappropriation of state funds. This marks the third protest of its kind by local residents since May.
I will write to the Premier of the Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane, urging him to urgently intervene and send a delegation of all relevant government departments to engage with community members to address their grievances in a constructive and peaceful manner.
While the DA acknowledges the constitutional right of every citizen to protest, we are deeply concerned about the disruptive nature of these actions and the impact they are having on the local economy. These protests are affecting businesses and disrupting essential services for ordinary residents who are already struggling under difficult socio-economic conditions.
We call on protesters to exercise their rights peacefully and within the law, respecting the rights of others and maintaining public safety. Those who endanger others or engage in criminal behaviour must be held accountable and dealt with by the police.
The DA remains dedicated to promoting residents’ well-being, safeguarding local economies, and advancing responsive, accountable, and transparent local governance.