‘It is unacceptable’: Broken elevator still restricts accessibility for disabled councillor
Charles Brough, FF Plus member, struggles to attend council meetings due to a broken lift. He states that there has been no change for two months since the municipality promised the repair of the elevator.
There is no light at the end of the tunnel for disabled councillor of the Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus), Charles Brough, who still struggles to attend important council meetings due to a broken lift in the municipal building.
As a result, Brough has to count on fellow councillors to either carry him or help him get around.
Brough was left wheelchair-bound after being involved in a vehicle crash and spoke to the Randfontein Herald about his challenges.
He stated that even though Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL) of the FF Plus, Amanda de Lange reported that the lift must be repaired as a matter of urgency, attempts have been in vain.
• Also read: Broken elevator restricts accessibility at council meetings for councillor
According to Brough, a recent council meeting left him stranded on the second floor of the building with no one to assist him. He claims that this has happened at two council meetings recently. Brough said that De Lange is planning to put pressure on the speaker and the respective departments yet again to address the matter and find a solution.
“It is unacceptable. The municipality does not even take notice of the matter. I plan to attend six more meetings but cannot do that if the lift is disregarded,” Brough said.
De Lange said that although the speaker undertook in writing in July that the lift would be repaired immediately, the situation is without change after more than two months. This matter has now been brought to the attention of the MEC for Social Development and the Department of Labour for immediate intervention.
“Ignoring disabled people’s rights is not only contrary to legislation but a direct violation of their human dignity. It is disappointing that the Province has to act as a watchdog to make sure that local officials and politicians fulfill their obligations,” De Lange stated.
The Herald has approached the municipality once again for comment on the matter. Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) spokesperson Phillip Montshiwa confirmed repair work has indeed commenced.
“We have started the repair work for the lift but we are currently in the process of sourcing some parts that are needed to complete the repair. We will keep you updated on the progress we make. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this situation.”
