Gauteng water crisis: Electorate must chuck clownish politicians out

20 March 2024

There is an infrastructure deficit in South Africa due to historic injustices. 

The infrastructure we do have – be it Eskom’s fleet of power stations, Gauteng’s water system, or our road network – is precious. If not maintained, it will break. 

Such as has occurred with Gauteng’s water system… 

About 25% of fresh drinking water in the province is lost due to leaks. 

In the City of Johannesburg the loss rises to 44%. 

The cause of the losses is neglect. For decades, provincial and municipal leaders failed to heed warnings of crumbling water infrastructure. Water was still coming out the taps, and they had their minds on other things such as positions and power. 

There are no short-term solutions to addressing the crisis besides a coherent, rational and sustainable maintenance plan.

An array of politicians have had the opportunity to lead Johannesburg over the past 10 years. 

Now that there’s a full-blown crisis, the best they can offer is pointing fingers at each other.

South African politics is maturing. Whereas for the past 30 years the electorate has voted largely on sentiment – for the party that helped liberate the country, or for that representing old order privilege – the dominance of the old parties is reaching its end.

More and more voters are making the link between their living conditions and diminished hopes, and those whom they have elected over the years in anticipation of better.

On 29 May citizens have the opportunity to vote for people they believe have the integrity to do their basic jobs: Manage the provision to all of their basic needs, including water.

Last week, GOOD unveiled a 10-point plan to stop South Africa’s suffering. The first point on the list is increased investment in public infrastructure. This will both create jobs and the robust foundations needed for the country’s development and growth.

Voters in Gauteng have the means to arrest the water crisis. If they don’t they will live with the consequences for five more years. 

Issued by Matthew Cook, GOOD National Chairperson & Gauteng Political Manager, 20 March 2024