/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

ActionSA Mpumalanga is concerned about the overflow of bucket toilets sewer at Charles Cilliers in Govan Mbeki Municipality, this despite the public announcement by the former Premier, Thabang Makwetla who declared that the bucket system has been eradicated in the province. 

Years later, the residents are still subjected to hazardous communal bucket toilets system. The communities around Govan Mbeki Municipality claim the municipality promised to convert their pit toilets to waterborne toilets 14 years ago, but it never happened.

ActionSA has observed a concerted effort to jeopardize the waste collection by those responsible for this task.

The last time they drained these toilets was two years ago.

The communities are living in an unhealthy environment as they share those overflowing communal toilets. They cannot eat because of the flies and the stench in those houses.

We strongly believe that the government has capacity to address this matter yet there is a lack of political will. It is evident that corruption and greedy has overpowered good governance.

Section 27 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa states that:(1) Everyone has the right to have access to— (a) health care services, including reproductive health care; (b) sufficient food and water; and (c) social security, including, if they are unable to support themselves and their dependants, appropriate social assistance. However, this basic human right is being trampled upon by the province.

14 years later, the ANC led Govan Mbeki has brought back these undignified and degrading form of toilets to haunt communities. Contrary to this, 10 farming communities, Syfontein farm, Genadirsfontein farm, Irenedale farm, Knopiesfontein and other farms are complaining that the municipality is failing to empty their toilets that are already full and flowing. They allege that the municipality has blatantly ignored their complaints.

ActionSA rejects this form of service delivery in our communities, these toilets do not meet positive human standards that residents should live under.

Issued by ActionSA Mpumalanga Provincial Chairperson Thoko Mashiane