EDITOR – I write to you about the two articles in The Sun newspaper regarding to the Wanda Cele Road, Amanzimtoti development.
I feel that you have reported irresponsibly on the situation.
The articles could be understood as the municipality being the ‘hero’ and ‘villain’ with the developer, Mr Baardwaj as the ‘villain’ and ‘victim’. Unless I have missed an article, the newspaper has failed to report on the fact that a Rezoning Appeal Tribunal hearing took place and that the tribunal chairman set aside the municipality’s rezoning approval decision as the municipality and/or Mr Baardwaj failed to comply with the KwaZulu-Natal Planning and Development Act, 2008 (Act No. 06 of 2008).
In your article in the 20 December issue, you mentioned plans being approved. Did your reporter view the approved plan and go and investigate what is actually constructed on site? The current construction on site is unlawful.
Mr Baardwaj feels that he is being ‘stonewalled’ by the municipality. Anything that Mr Baardwaj is experiencing relating to this development which he may feel is unfair or unjust is a result of his actions.
My advice to the members of the community is that if they are experiencing events which they feel are unlawful:
1. Acquire copies and understand any associated acts and regulations. They are clear and easy to understand. In the event that there is difficulty in understanding, municipal and government departments are there to assist.
2. Clearly understand and ensure that there is no ambiguity in municipal letters served.
3. The municipality and councillors have been entrusted with a responsibility of the well-being of all in the community. Hold them accountable to this responsibility.
4. If members of the community suspect that something is unlawful, however are not sure, enquire and do research. Their suspicions will be proved correct or incorrect.
5. Stand up for what is right and don’t give up until due process is followed and a lawful outcome achieved.
6. Appeal at a regional level instead of at local level.
Adding in conclusion, there are municipal and government staff members who conduct their work really well, and I am grateful to them.
