The Presidency of South Africa says Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis is ‘politicking’ after he called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to set a deadline for the National Devolution Strategy before his term ends.
Also read: CT urges president to set National Rail Devolution Strategy deadline
On 4 April, Hill-Lewis released a statement in which he implored Ramaphosa to set a deadline for the Devolution Strategy before his term ends in less than two months.
Ramaphosa first promised that the strategy would be delivered in 2023, even though Transport Minister Sindiswe Chikunga stated in May that there are no plans to devolve rail to the City.
On 5 September 2023, the strategy was discussed in Parliament and at the time, Ramaphosa stated that rail devolution was ‘on track’. Hill-Lewis responded by consulting the City of Cape Town’s lawyers on the possibility of an intergovernmental dispute.
At the time, he stated that the ‘National government’s failure to devolve rail will ultimately necessitate an intergovernmental dispute. We would much rather have the President accept our offer for a working committee and set a clear deadline for handing over passenger rail in Cape Town.’
‘South Africans also have an opportunity in the May elections to install a national coalition with the political will to get devolution done as soon as possible.’
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city, at half the price? Get exclusive offers here.
However, News24 reports that the approval and implementation of the strategy were again extended to this year.
As per the ongoing rail feasibility study, conducted by the City of Cape Town, efficient passenger rail could add R11 billion to the local economy each year.
‘Cape Town is ready for the job-creating economic growth that comes with working trains. Lower-income families are ready for more affordable public transport. This is why we expect extreme urgency from the national government to devolve rail for the City to run,’ Hill-Lewis said.
‘Now with under two months until the end of his term, there is still no deadline for this strategy and the City has not even been consulted on a draft. Mr President, tell us: are you breaking your promise to devolve rail to metros?’
Listen to the full statement here:
According to Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for the Presidency, Ramaphosa is working on improving South Africa’s railway network.
‘He [Hill-Lewis] has been complaining about this issue for some time, ignoring the fact that all issues related to rail transport are being addressed, including the adoption of a new rail transport road map,’ he told News24.
‘While he [Hill-Lewis] is busy politicking on this matter, the president will continue leading the necessary reforms in the sector.’
Find you perfect set of wheels with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k. Find car listings here.
Also read:
CoCT to launch intergovernmental dispute over rail devolution
Picture: Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis / Facebook