In the wake of widespread damage to municipal property, the Swellendam Municipality is anticipating another march by residents from informal settlements, bringing with it a high law enforcement presence this week.
Also read: Swellendam municipal building set ablaze amid service delivery protests
This comes after Mayor Francois du Rand estimated the cost to rebuild damaged infrastructure from the previous protest at around R25 million.
‘A peaceful march is scheduled in Swellendam on August 30, starting at 8,’ the municipality said. ‘The primary objective of the march is to present complaints and requests from the informal settlement to the Swellendam Municipality. Participants must abstain from engaging in intimidation, defiance, or hate speech.’
‘All participants and community members are strongly encouraged to respect each other’s rights and differing perspectives.’
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‘The Public Order Police, local SAPS and traffic police will oversee the procession to ensure compliance with the Public Assemblies Act. Non-compliance with this act may result in the immediate termination of the march,’ it added.
Meanwhile, according to IOL, Du Rand said the council had deliberations where the majority made a final decision on the requirements set by the informal area’s residents.
These included the requirement that every resident be entitled to apply for subsidised services offered by the municipality.
‘In terms of the Application and Qualification Process, residents must follow the established guidelines and criteria outlined in the approved policy to qualify for subsidised services.’
‘For the registration and application process, the municipality is committed to launching an extensive campaign to register and process applications for subsidised services.’
‘This initiative will ensure that all eligible residents benefit from the assistance available,’ said Du Rand.
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Also read:
Calls for calm following looting and destruction in Swellendam
Picture: Swellendam Municipality / Facebook