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A protest by Sugarbush residents on Tuesday morning brought traffic to a standstill on the N2 road between KwaBhaca and eMaXesibeni.
According to Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose, law enforcement officers were deployed to manage the blockade and restore traffic flow.
Demonstrators burned tires, completely blocking the N2 and forcing motorists to use alternative routes.
The protest was sparked by controversy surrounding the hiring of new employees by the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) for a road repair project. Residents claimed that the government had failed to prioritize hiring locals, instead bringing in outsiders.
Although the roads were eventually reopened, some residents warned that they may relocate their protest to a different location soon.
The disruption highlights tensions between community expectations and government contracting practices, underscoring the need for effective communication and local economic empowerment.
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