‘Mafia’ in Knysna eyes service delivery functions, WC cabinet told

KNYSNA NEWS - Serious service delivery problems and “mafias” allegedly infiltrating these crucial functions in Knysna were high on the agenda at the first cabinet meeting of the Western Cape Government on Friday 19 January.

According to a statement posted on the Western Cape government’s website, Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Minister, Anton Bredell, said the municipality is failing in all core services. “We cannot keep assisting it financially as this is not viable.”

Cabinet was also told about concerns of “mafias” attempting to infiltrate various service delivery functions in the town. Premier Alan Winde, who chaired the meeting, labelled the current state of affairs in Knysna as “completely unacceptable”. “We are considering our options,” he said.

Waste collection and clearance have been a massive problem in Knysna during 2023 and in December locals and visitors saw garbage piling up in the streets of Knysna and Sedgefield as the waste collection wheels came off completely. Large areas of Knysna were also left without water early in December and water trucks were sent from George to provide water to the affected areas. These mishaps as well as sewage spills are laid at the door of the ANC, Patriotic Alliance (PA) and Plaaslike Besorgde Inwoners (PBI) governing coalition, which the opposition DA coalition has branded the “coalition of corruption”.

Knysna MM: ‘Report concerns to SAPS’
In response to a query from Knysna-Plett Herald news editor, Blake Linder, Knysna Municipal Manager, Ombali Sebola said the municipality cannot respond to allegations of “mafias” infiltrating structures. “We strongly encourage the Premier and the public to report any concerns to the South African Police Services for investigation. We remain committed to transparency and the rule of the law.”

He said that throughout the last quarter of 2023, the municipality actively engaged with the provincial government on multiple occasions to address various concerns related to service delivery and fiscal matters. “These challenges included issues such as waste management, sewer spills, water supply, and other essential services. We have openly and transparently communicated about these issues.”

Diagnostic report awaited
Sebola said the provincial government endeavoured to assist the municipality in various ways, including support arrangements with neighbouring municipalities. “Of particular significance is the preparation of a diagnostic report. The outcomes of this diagnostic report will play an important role in advising our municipality on the most effective way forward.

“However, we have not yet received the diagnostic report. We will only be able to report thereon once Council has had time to consider its recommendations.”

Knysna Municipal Manager, Ombali Sebola

Separate sphere of government
Winde said the Western Cape government remains committed to supporting and strengthening the capacity of Knysna Municipality to manage its own affairs and perform its constitutional functions as a separate sphere of government. ”We have a responsibility as the provincial government to support the municipality to deliver services, but we also have to respect that it is a separate sphere of government that must also be held accountable by the residents,” Winde said.

Challenging times ahead
In his cabinet address Winde said the provincial government administration is facing challenging months until the end of their term and beyond. ”We must continue to steady the ship, all the while keeping the needs of our residents foremost. Long-term thinking and planning should guide everything we do. The Western Cape will continue to be the province of hope. We have become the hope for South Africa.”