African National Congress (ANC) Deputy President Paul Mashatile has strongly criticised the Democratic Alliance (DA) for its failure to address the challenges faced by impoverished communities in the Western Cape, particularly in Khayelitsha, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Mashatile’s remarks come ahead of the ANC’s 113th birthday celebrations, with the party preparing to gather in the region next weekend.
Cyril Ramaphosa to address service delivery challenges
The ANC will mark its anniversary with a major event in Khayelitsha, where President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the highly anticipated 8 January statement. Mashatile’s visit to the region on Sunday, which included attending a church service at the Andrew Losaba Methodist Church in False Bay, aimed to further highlight the ongoing issues in the area.
‘We want to make sure that the people of Khayelitsha, like others in the Western Cape, do get a better life,’ Mashatile told journalists. He emphasised the ANC’s commitment to working with local communities to address service delivery problems and offer solutions. This visit is seen as part of the party’s broader focus on improving the lives of South Africans, especially in areas that have been historically marginalised.
Unemployment, crime and fire damage in Khayelitsha
Mashatile revealed that during the election campaign, he had visited Khayelitsha alongside Deputy Minister of Human Settlements, Tandi Mahambehlala, where they witnessed firsthand the high levels of unemployment, particularly among the youth, and rising crime rates. The ANC deputy president also expressed concern about the devastating fires that have recently ravaged several informal settlements, displacing hundreds of people and destroying their homes.
‘During the festive period, Deputy Minister Mahambehlala spent most of her time in affected communities, assisting where possible,’ Mashatile noted. ‘We cannot ignore the severe challenges faced by residents here. The provincial government has failed to provide adequate support, and it is time for national government to step in.’
Government’s role in addressing neglect
Mashatile pointed out that while the ANC is not in charge of the Western Cape, the national government has a responsibility to assist communities neglected by the DA-led provincial administration. ‘We will work with these communities and help them overcome their challenges. It’s clear that areas like Khayelitsha are being overlooked by the provincial government,’ he said.
The ANC’s 8 January celebrations are not just an opportunity for political speeches, according to Mashatile. The event will serve as a platform to address the concerns of the people and engage with them on issues that matter most, especially service delivery, employment, and community safety.
ANC’s commitment to Khayelitsha and beyond
The ANC has promised that the 8 January event will not merely be a rally but a genuine effort to listen to and understand the challenges faced by communities like Khayelitsha. The event will be held at Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha on Saturday, offering a platform for President Ramaphosa and other party leaders to engage directly with the people.
As the ANC prepares for its landmark celebrations, it is clear that the party remains deeply committed to addressing the urgent needs of South Africa’s most vulnerable communities, even in provinces where it does not hold political power.
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Picture: Deaan Vivier / Gallo
