EFF KZN statement on the government’s failure to respond to the crisis of people trapped in snow on the N3
22 September 2024
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in KwaZulu-Natal expresses its deep disappointment, anger, and sorrow at the devastating and preventable loss of life as a result of the government's shameful failure to respond to the crisis of people trapped in snow on the N3 highway. This tragedy is a direct consequence of the IFP-DA negligence and inability to act in a timely and responsible manner during an emergency that was both foreseeable and avoidable.
Despite repeated warnings of severe weather conditions, the provincial (KZN) and national government showed a complete lack of preparedness. Their failure to mobilize resources swiftly to rescue those trapped in the snow has now resulted in the tragic and needless death of an innocent person. As the EFF in KZN, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased, whose life was cruelly cut short due to the incompetence and indifference of the DA led coalition.
This catastrophe is not just an unfortunate incident; it is a clear example that the DA led coalition in KZN lacks the care for its citizens. While ordinary South Africans are left to fend for themselves in life-threatening conditions, those responsible for disaster management and public safety remain silent and inactive. This government's sluggish and inadequate response has turned a difficult situation into a life-and-death crisis, and the loss of life that has resulted must weigh heavily on their conscience.
EFF KZN will ensure that the DA led coalition will be held fully accountable for this death. We will be writing to the Premier and demand a comprehensive report and call for an immediate investigation into how this disaster was handled, and for the identification of all those responsible for the delayed response.
The family of the deceased deserves justice, and South Africans deserve to know why their government failed them in their hour of need. It is clear that this Provincial government of unity in KZN is more focused on self-preservation and political maneuvering than on the safety and well-being of the people it claims to serve.
Moreover, we reiterate our demand for urgent intervention to rescue those still stranded on the N3. Emergency services, medical assistance, and basic supplies must be provided immediately to prevent further loss of life. The EFF will continue to monitor the situation closely, and we will not rest until every person is accounted for and safe.
The death of even one person is too many. EFF KZN stands with the people, and we will not allow this gross failure to go unanswered. The DA- led coalition has shown its true colours, and it is the people of South Africa who continue to pay the price.
Issued by Mongeqi Twaia, Provincial Chairperson, EFF KZN, 23 September 2024
