Political debate hosted by SABC
In closing statements, the DA said they would ensure that moneys budgeted for service delivery is used effectively and their officials would account for every cent.
The SABC Ukhozi FM held a debate about service delivery last Friday at the Ermelo Civic Centre between the ANC, IFP and DA.
Mpumalanga ANC Chairman Mr Vusi Shongwe informed the audience that the ANC was happy with the progress they have made so far.
IFP Provincial Secretary Mr Jabulani Sibiya disputed Shongwe’s statement that the ANC was making progress.
“How can you say you’ve progressed, if there are still places facing sewer spillages from corner to corner and roads in a dilapidated state?” asked Mr Sibiya.
Mr Innocent Mabuza of the DA also took a swipe at Shongwe, saying the reason people protest is because there is no service delivery at all.
Mr Shongwe acknowledged that there are areas of concern on which they are already working. “We have a good story to tell. We have been in power for only 20 years and have managed to provide at least 2.4 million RDP houses, eradicated the bucket system in Mpumalanga and provided potable water and sanitation to many areas that did not have these before,” said Shongwe.
When asked what they would do differently if the IFP were in power, Mr Sibiya said they would fight corruption and get rid of the reverse oppression by the ruling party.
Mr Mabuza said the DA would increase the number of policemen and do away with wasteful expenditure that is currently tearing apart local municipalities.
In closing statements, the DA said they would ensure that moneys budgeted for service delivery is used effectively and their officials would account for every cent.
The IFP promised to improve roads, water and electricity supply and Mr Shongwe said the ANC will continue improving the lives of the people as they have done in the past 20 years and create job opportunities, especially for the youth, as they are the future leaders.
