Social ills: Cllr won’t get off that easily

EDITOR – Councillor Andre Beetge’s ‘yes we cannot’ reply to AE Burger’s concern regarding the beggars refers.

Other than pointing out Ms Burger’s ignorance of relevant factors, he used almost four columns to tell us he is going to do sweet nothing about it and then conveniently proclaims that he does not believe there is a final solution.

No, the ward councillor is not going to get off the hook that easily.

An appeal is recorded in the ward committee minutes for the councillor to engage with church leaders to meet with the committee. At the proposed meeting with the religious fraternity, the intention was to resolve the social aspects of beggars, homeless children and prostitutes but the councillor ignored the committee’s call and then stopped attending ward committee meetings. The reason for the councillor’s reluctance to address the issue is now clear as he does not believe there is a final solution.

We cannot run a town on what our councillor believes. If he cannot meet the challenge we must ask his political party and speaker of council for a replacement. Although elected by the people he was the candidate approved by a few politicians thus not entirely the people’s choice.

Placing blame on the population explosion and urbanisation does not lead to a solution. Respectfully I refer to the people mentioned by the councillor that pray and hope for a miracle. While I revere people’s faith and do not discourage it, I also know God has never refused a little help from humans. Hoping for a miracle was also mentioned but it must be remembered that the universe offers no miracles just results.

A kind request to Ms Burger to instead of referring to street children, homeless would be the better adjective to describe the plight of these children. When we stuff our faces this festive season, spare a thought of generosity to those who have no reason to be merry.

FRANK HORN

eManzimtoti