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The story of Khutsong is but one example of how a lack of political will and accountability can hamper the realisation of achieving service delivery, writes Mmusi Maimane.
As we commemorated Human Rights Day this week, I found myself reflecting on the tangible reality of human rights in our society. Is it a lofty academic ideal? Or are human rights felt, championed and shared by all?
As a believer in Ubuntu and a champion for social and economic justice, I am compelled to highlight the plight of those whose rights continue to be violated daily. One such community is Merafong, a city marred by sinkholes and an unresponsive local government.
Merafong City Local Municipality, the administrative and governing body of the area, has failed to protect and uphold the human rights of its residents, particularly those in Khutsong and surrounding areas. The municipality's negligence, particularly in the areas of infrastructure maintenance and provision of safe housing, has led to a situation where the rights to life, dignity, and education of Khutsong's residents are severely compromised.
READ | Our homes are death traps - Khutsong residents live in fear as sinkholes swallow houses
Sinkholes have long plagued Khutsong, a region underlain by dolomite. These geological features have caused immense destruction, swallowing up homes, roads, and even graves. Following heavy rains, graves in Khutsong, Fochville, and Greenspark collapsed, leaving grieving families demanding action from the local government. Yet, despite multiple reports on the issue, the municipality has done little to address the problem or prevent further sinkhole development.
In failing to repair damaged areas or relocate residents to safe locations, the municipality has shown a blatant disregard for the well-being and dignity of its citizens. Their inaction not only puts lives at risk but also erodes the trust between the community and its leaders.
This negligence extends to the maintenance and upgrading of vital sewer and wastewater infrastructure in the area. The lack of attention to these essential services has exacerbated the sinkhole crisis, further jeopardising the lives and property of Khutsong's residents.
Nothing done to restore school
One particularly distressing example of the municipality's failure is the case of a sinkhole that severely damaged Relebogile High School. Despite the obvious need for action, the municipality has done nothing to repair or restore the school. As a result, the school remains unusable, forcing pupils to attend classes at an alternative location after normal school hours. This situation not only hampers effective learning but also infringes upon the pupils' constitutionally enshrined right to education.
I have long advocated for equal service delivery and the improvement of the education system in our country. The story of Khutsong is but one example of how a lack of political will and accountability can hamper the realisation of these goals. It is also a poignant reminder of the importance of electoral reform, enabling communities to vote directly for their representatives and hold them accountable for their actions.
The social market economy that I envision for South Africa requires a government that prioritises the well-being of its citizens above all else. This vision is only achievable if we address the systemic failures that have led to the Merafong tragedy and similar situations in other communities across the nation.
READ | OPINION: Human rights are for all, but there must be a prioritisation in justice quests
It is time for local governments to step up and become the delivery point for human rights that they are meant to be.
The situation in Merafong is a stark reminder that human rights are not just lofty ideals enshrined in our Constitution; they are the tangible, everyday needs of our people.
As we strive to build a more inclusive and equal society, we must acknowledge and address the disparities in service delivery that perpetuate injustice and undermine the very principles of human rights. In doing so, we pave the way for a South Africa that is truly united and prosperous, where all citizens can enjoy the full spectrum of their human rights.
Be inspired by spirit of ubuntu
It is essential that we hold our local governments accountable for their actions, and demand that they address the issues that plague communities like Merafong. This requires active participation from citizens, engagement with local officials, and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice and equality.
In addition to addressing the immediate concerns of affected communities, we must also work to prevent similar situations from arising in the future. This can be achieved through rigorous monitoring and maintenance of infrastructure, investing in sustainable development, and implementing policies that prioritise the needs and rights of citizens.
Furthermore, the improvement of South Africa's education system is paramount to the realisation of our vision for a more equitable society. Ensuring that all learners have access to quality education not only fulfils their basic human right but also equips them with the skills necessary for upward social mobility and the reduction of income inequality.
As we look ahead, let us be inspired by the spirit of Ubuntu to forge a brighter future for all South Africans. This means standing together in solidarity with the residents of Merafong and all others whose human rights have been neglected, and working tirelessly to build a nation that is truly inclusive, just, and equitable.
In conclusion, the case of Merafong is a poignant reminder of the critical role local governments play in safeguarding human rights. As we commemorate Human Rights this month, let it serve as a call to action for our leaders and citizens alike to recommit to the values enshrined in our Constitution and work towards the betterment of all South Africans.
Only through collective action, unwavering resolve, and a genuine commitment to the principles of justice and equality can we hope to build a nation where human rights are not hollow ideals but a lived reality for all our people.
- Mmusi Maimane is the leader of BOSA.
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