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The city of East London breathed fresh air as Ramaphosa visits the province, this comes after the infamous story of Enyobeni Tavern where 21 children lost their lives.
President Cyril Ramaphosa held the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), council of mayor’s convention. This was at the East London international convention centre (ICC) on the 8th of September 2022. This was part of the initiative to revisit the development of local government position on policies and legislation impacting local government, together with identifying challenges faced by municipalities with propositions to possible solutions.
Amongst the delegates was the Premier of Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane, Mayer of East London, Xola Pakati, Minister of COGTA, Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Minister of SAPS, Bheki Cele and Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula and SALGA President, Bheki Stofile. This came just after the day of the Bhisho Massacre as the EL, Mayor pointed out on his opening welcoming remarks.
As the President addressed the convention, he mentioned the need for urgent intervention in all municipalities to make streets safer for those who cannot protect themselves. His excellency called out for the hiring of competent employees in all the municipalities for maximum effect and positive change, with the role of Mayors to enhance good governance, transparency, accountability and sustainability.
Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma followed the state leader, sharing the economical effect of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The most affected are the poor citizens of this country and it is the responsibility of local governance to recognise where the need is adamant, which will make it easier to not only speak but act for a better citizen leading to a better country”.
Minister Cele criticised the crime doers as he was asked about the popular cable theft for selling at scrap metals, but failed to respond to a proposal that illegal scrap metal businesses should be shut down and only those with legal documentation and require identification from each transaction made with sellers.
