Protestors blocked all the entrances into Clewer earlier this week.
On Tuesday, May 8 residents started barricading entrances by burning tyres, debris and logs on the R104. The protesters have taken to the streets to voice their frustrations over various issues which include their wish to be separated from Vosman.
The ward councillor of ward nine, Cllr Doris Mthimkhulu was shocked to learn that her ward was burning.
“I heard rumours that residents were embarking on a protest at Clewer, but I am not aware of anything,” she said.
Mr Zwelekhe Vilakazi, one of the community leaders said frustrations are boiling over because residents from Vosman are employed at mines in the Clewer area. He feels that they should be employed at the mines because they are directly affected by it.
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“We claim the job opportunities at the mines, Vosman residents should look for work within their boundaries not ours,” he said.
Vilakazi said they are trying to become an entity on their own.
“This is easier said than done. The demarcation board must step in and this is a long process,” said municipal spokesperson Mr Kingdom Mabuza.
A motorist, who wishes to stay anonymous, said he had to travel to eMalahleni early on Wednesday, May 9 and was met by a group of protestors.
“It is intimidating, but I drove slowly and the protestors let me through without a hitch. Their actions are just so uncalled for. Burning tyres on tar roads damages the tar surfaces,” the man said.
The protesting residents wanted to see the Executive Mayor, Cllr Linah Malatjie, but she was in Cape Town on a Tourism Indaba.
By the time going to print there was a heavy police presence at Clewer. Residents were still waiting on word from the municipality.
