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GRAAFF-REINET NEWS & VIDEO - During a peaceful march to the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality (DBNLM) on Monday, approximately 200 Umasizakhe residents demanded improved consultation, better service delivery, and respect from Mayor Deon De Vos.
On behalf of the marchers, community leader Melvin Petersen handed over a petition to De Vos, asking that municipal leaders respect them as community.
"The residents of ward four and six in Umasizakhe note with concern the lack of cooperation, recognition and consultation by the DBNLM, with regards to services rendered in the recent months," they state in the petition.
Photo gallery: Peaceful march by Umasizakhe residents
The key issues they want resolved include the lack of consultation regarding the installation of water meters, issues relating the practicalities of the water meters once installed, and challenges already encountered due to the new meters and billing.
Petersen said the municipality must not be fooled by the number of protesters that participated in the protest.
"You will get the masses participating, and not only Umasizakhe. We do not receive the respect from the municipality that we show you," he told De Vos.
Petersen accused the municipality of violating their rights.
Watch a video below:
Approximately 200 Umasizahke residents on their way to the local municipality.
The protesters threatened to stop the installation of new water meters and the planned work on roads in Umasizakhe. "You must first consult with us," Petersen added.
De Vos told the upset community that there is nothing wrong with their demands. "Communication is a serious problem," he said.
He thanked them for the disciplined way in which they handed over the petition.
The protesters want answers within a week. De Vos said the municipality will adhere to this demand.
Community members listening to Melvin Petersen and Mayor Deon De Vos.
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