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The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has hit back at claims by the Amadiba Crisis Committee (ACC), saying it remains in active dialogue over the N2 Wild Coast Road — and that recent media coverage is undermining those talks.
What Happened
On 3 December 2025, SANRAL issued a public response to an article published in the Mail & Guardian, titled “SANRAL must stop sabotaging engagement with the people of Amadiba.” The agency said it was “bemused” by the article, which it labelled one-sided and factually misleading.
The agency confirmed it held two formal engagements with the ACC in recent weeks — on 24 November and again on 3 December — under the oversight of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Transport.
“These sessions are taking place in good faith,” said SANRAL Board Chairperson Themba Mhambi. “It’s ironic that while we were engaging, an article appeared that misrepresents those very discussions.”
Official Response
SANRAL rejected the ACC’s call for a “mid-term review” of the project, arguing it is not supported by legislation. The agency insists its internal oversight — including reviews by Treasury, the Auditor-General, and the Transport Ministry — is sufficient.
“SANRAL shall not suspend any of its current and planned operations in favour of the proposed mid-term review,” said Mhambi.
He also stressed the project includes structured community engagement via land facilitation, municipal coordination, and the Eastern Cape’s Political Oversight Committee — the only such body created for this project.
Amadiba Residents Take Petition to Parliament Over N2 Wild Coast Route
Community Impact
The N2 Wild Coast Road remains a major infrastructure development in the Eastern Cape. However, divisions continue over its route and consultation process. The ACC claims it has proposed a less disruptive route 10–12km inland, designed with engineers since 2021.
SANRAL maintains it is open to useful input but will not delay implementation. It called on the ACC to participate in recognised forums alongside traditional leaders and other stakeholders.
Key Points:
- SANRAL confirms 2 recent meetings with ACC
- Denies claims of sabotage or refusal to consult
- Mid-term review request rejected as outside standard procedure
- Calls for ACC to engage via formal stakeholder platforms
