The Democratic Alliance, represented by Councillor Yogis Govender in eThekwini Municipality’s Executive Committee, called on exco to convene a special sitting to discuss the crime that has spiralled out of control across the city. During a recent meeting, it was highlighted that horrific crimes such as the killing of an eThekwini Municipality intern and the multiple shootings in the city can no longer go without decisive action.
The people of this city are distressed, and anxiety has settled over most eThekwini residents as the crime rages unchecked. Accordingly, the Democratic Alliance has appealed to city management to brainstorm a plan in accordance with the “boots on the ground campaign” that was touted recently. In addition, the city must scrutinise and adjust the implementation and resources needed for effective law enforcement.
Particular mention was made of town planning, where serious transgressions occur, particularly in areas that are zoned residential. Common transgressions include taxi-related complaints, illegal scrap yards, park and fly operations, land invasions, and illegal trading. Land invasion has recently come under the spotlight, with the city alleging that it is actually the pie act that prevents them from acting instead of accepting responsibility that they have not produced sufficient housing within a reasonable time as per their own mandate.
The reality is that the inability of eThekwini leadership and management to enforce its own bylaws and provide services that will prevent social decay in society has led to the downward spiral in the city. Non-responsive officials coupled with scant resources means it takes months and or years to respond to complaints. This leaves the door wide open for illegal practices and unlawful activities to flourish.
We note that during the July riots the city manager had assured residents that the city was developing a safety and security plan, and as the DA we will persist in convening a special sitting of the executive committee in which all of these issues are to be tabled and a comprehensive plan of action implemented.