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Bobani’s reckless populism compromises delivery to NMB residents oppressed by poverty

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Dear MyPE

The Democratic Alliance rejects with utter contempt allegations that the party encouraged residents of Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) to stop paying their rates and taxes. (see: Bobani puts his statement in context)

This ludicrous allegation was today made by Mongameli Bobani, illegitimate Executive Mayor of NMB, in an effort to deflect attention from a recent irresponsible statement made by him.

It was reported that Bobani said the entire municipal budget for the next financial year will be spent in NMB townships and the Northern Areas, whilst the suburbs were to receive nothing. He also reportedly said that if affluent areas report sewage problems, he will instruct Andile Lungisa, illegitimate MMC for Infrastructure and Engineering, to ignore the complaint. (see: Dear Mayor Bobani – Is Your Statement a Bunch of Porky Pies?)

Bobani is now trying to escape blame by dragging the DA into this. We challenge Bobani to provide proof that the DA called on residents to refrain from paying rates and taxes.

The DA does not support a rates boycott and we call on all NMB residents to stay calm during this time.

The DA and its coalition partners have shown in its approved budgets in government that there is a commitment to correct imbalances in our society.

In the previous financial year the DA and its coalition partners succeeded in spending close to R1.1 billion on capital works that have directly improved the lives of people oppressed by poverty and made for better service delivery.

It is important to note that the 2018/19 municipal budget passed by the DA and its coalition partners is focused on alleviating the plight of the poor in the Metro. Services such as the Assistance to the Poor (ATTP) will see recipients receive R2 billion over the medium term.

We are fully aware that the affluent subsidize communities oppressed by poverty and denying that is irresponsible.

Any mayor claiming to withhold budget and services from the affluent compromises the everyday lives and future of communities oppressed by poverty.

The DA will never allow Bobani to withhold services from certain residents.

The ANC-led coalition of corruption and its puppet mayor Bobani plan to milk the City dry and feel nothing for the well-being of the people of the Metro.

It is important to note that it is the failing ANC that has proudly placed someone like Bobani in a leadership position. He dances to the tune of the failing ANC and has no real power as mayor.

Athol Trollip is the real Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay. It is under Mayor Trollip’s Leadership that this Metro has started to see real change.

Regards

Andrew Whitfield MPL
DA EC Provincial Chairperson

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