A petition to preserve the dignity of Walter Sisulu Square
"We are here to launch the petition to show the people that we are willing to fight for them and restore the dignity of Walter Sisulu Square."
On Tuesday, September 12, the DA launched a petition seeking the Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation (SACR) to fix Walter Sisulu Square which was vandalised during lockdown and looting in July 2021.
Its been almost two months since the D A conducted a walkabout to assess the damage at the Walter Sisulu Square in Kliptown.
They have returned, this time with a petition to urge the SACR to restore the dignity of this establishment and make it a hotspot for tourists again.
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Wildri Peach, DA Gauteng spokesperson said, “The signing of the Freedom Charter in Kliptown was a cornerstone of our constitution. We are here to launch the petition to show the people that we are willing to fight for them and restore the dignity of Walter Sisulu Square.”
The DA engaged with the community as well as small businesses which have been severely affected by the neglect of this establishment. Some businesses had to move to other areas and are struggling because they cannot afford rent.
“People are afraid to come here. The reality of the matter is that this place has become a hotspot for criminal activities. Even consumers do not want to come here.
“They feel safer in malls regardless of our affordable products and convenience. We are asking the government to improve the place,” said one of the shop owners in Kliptown.
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The hope to restore this historic facility is not yet lost. Residents are urged to sign the petition forcing the Gauteng SARC to preserve their heritage and refurbish Walter Sisulu Square.
https://petitions.da.org.za/p/Preserve-our-Heritage-and-refurbish-Walter-Sisulu-Square-Now
