THE Economic Freedom Party (EFF) is urging the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) to improve water provision in the City of uMhlathuze.
The IFP-led city, located in Richards Bay, northern KZN, saw hundreds of EFF members marching to the municipal building.
The march was led by EFF secretary-general Marshall Dlamini, who voiced concerns over the lack of water access for residents.
Dlamini criticised the IFP's management of the city, likening it to a 'poorly run spaza shop' and accused the party of violating the country's constitution by failing to deliver basic services like water.
"We were once in coalition with them but when we realised that they are clueless about leading. They are just running around just like headless chickens while people have no water. They're busy running the municipality like the IFP spaza shop. Water is a basic service delivery. Therefore, they are bridging the constitution of this country,” said Dlamini.
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He revealed that residents seeking assistance at municipal offices were questioned about their membership, indicating a possible bias in service provision.
The city is currently implementing water shedding, limiting water availability to a few hours in the morning and evening. Residents expressed their struggles with this system, highlighting the essential need for water.
Resident Khulekani Khumalo (34) said: "We need water. Without water life is hard. We support the EFF as they want the right thing to be done."
Another resident, Sibongile Qwabe (42), from Esikhaleni, mentioned that her taps have been dry for the past four years. She said she and other residents have almost given up hope of ever having water again because they haven't been told why their taps are dry.
Bongani Gina, the spokesman for the City of uMhlathuze, explained that water scarcity is a widespread issue in Mzansi, not just in their city.
However, he assured that efforts are being made to solve the problem.
"The city has implemented water shedding in many areas to ensure residents have access to water. Additionally, a package plant is being set up to help areas affected by water shedding. This plant is nearly complete, and soon, the water issues in many areas will be resolved," he said.
