DA CALLS FOR SNAP DEBATE ON BEKKERSDAL CRISIS

I have written today to Ms Lindiwe Maseko, the Speaker of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, requesting an urgent debate on the violent protests in Bekkerskal.

The situation in Bekkersdal is extremely worrying. Property has been vandalised and shops looted.

It is so bad that pupils writing matric are being placed in a special residential camp outside the township.

Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane has inflamed the situation by protecting Westonaria mayor Nonkoliso Thundzi, who residents accuse of corruption.

She has also insulted residents by saying she does not want their "dirty votes".

Mokonyane needs to explain why she refuses to place the bankrupt Westonaria council under administration and investigate corruption allegations.

Genuine grievances must be addressed whilst maintaining law and order in Bekkersdal.

Mokonyane must account to the Legislature for her poor handling of this crisis.

Statement issued by Jack Bloom MPL, DA Gauteng Caucus Leader, October 27 2013

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