The Naledi Local Municipality is currently embroiled in a heated dispute involving community members and certain municipal officials, which has brought a critical road infrastructure project to a grinding halt. The project, worth R13,670,141.54, involves paving and upgrading Auriem and Crutze Streets in Huhudi and was contracted to BIZ AT TRADING MANAGEMENT JV DROP DOT (PTY) LTD.

According to documents publicly circulated and prominently displayed on municipal notice boards, the project commenced on 9 June 2025 and was due for completion by 9 December 2025. However, progress came to a standstill on 15 July 2025 when a group of about 50 individuals forcefully closed down the site. Allegations suggest that disruptions were incited by councillor Vuyiswa Rhoda Morakile, along with suspended municipal crime patrollers M Kgobadi and T Ketshabang. It is claimed that these individuals are unhappy with both the project’s management and the appointed contractor.

The disruptions have caused substantial financial implications, with standing costs accumulating at R28,232.50 daily, amounting to R56,465 from 15 to 17 July alone. Equipment valued at approximately R9 million, including graders, excavators, TLBs, and tipper trucks, is currently at risk due to threats of damage and destruction.

The municipality has responded by filing an urgent interdict with the North West High Court in Mahikeng. In an affidavit, Municipal Manager Modisenyane Thompson Segapo stated the municipality is duty-bound to uphold its contractual obligations and emphasized the irreparable harm being inflicted upon the community, the project, and municipal finances.

Suspension letters issued on 20 June 2024 to Kgobadi and Ketshabang were also disclosed, highlighting serious misconduct including threats of municipal shutdowns and illegal strikes, further exacerbating tensions.

The High Court has been petitioned for immediate relief, seeking to prohibit further unlawful disruptions. Segapo requested an urgent interim order due to fears that delay could severely impact community service delivery and municipal resources.

This developing situation continues to raise significant concerns within the Huhudi community, prompting calls for urgent dialogue and conflict resolution. The community awaits the High Court’s decision on this pressing matter, which will undoubtedly have lasting impacts on local governance, community relations, and critical infrastructure development in Naledi.

What is your view on this Matter?

-The VIP Team

-Naledi Local Municipality 

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