The City of Johannesburg’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport, Kenny Kunene, has announced a decisive move to restore order in Johannesburg and Soweto following disruptions to service delivery in Region D. The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has been deployed to ensure the smooth continuation of essential services and to prevent further hindrance by protesting groups.
Protests Demand Jobs
Kunene revealed that the ongoing disruptions were linked to a group of individuals, allegedly affiliated with the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), who are demanding employment as general workers in the City of Johannesburg. According to Kunene, these individuals have been preventing workers from performing their duties, affecting vital services in the area.
“These disruptions are being caused by members of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, who are demanding to be employed. They want to be handpicked for jobs, but this is not how we operate,” Kunene explained.
However, MKP spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela vehemently denied the accusations, questioning the rationale behind Kunene’s claim. “It’s been raining for two weeks, so why would our members block people in such conditions? Kunene should understand that politics isn’t the same as running a nightclub,” Ndhlela retorted.
Ensuring Lawful Employment Process
Kunene emphasized that the City would not tolerate any disruptions to service delivery and affirmed that the proper employment processes must be followed. He clarified that job seekers must apply through official channels, as advertised, and that no one would be given preferential treatment.
“The advert has gone out, and everybody must apply. There will be no exceptions,” Kunene insisted. “We will adhere to the law and follow the government’s established procedures.”
JMPD to Ensure Safety and Order
In response to the unrest, Kunene announced that JMPD officers would be deployed on Monday to escort workers in Region D and ensure they can complete their tasks without interference. This step is aimed at ensuring the continuation of essential services such as clinic operations, school activities, and maintenance of stormwater drains, all of which have been impacted by the protests.
“I have spoken to the chief of the JMPD, and I have received assurance that officers will be deployed to escort workers so they can do their jobs safely,” Kunene said.
Zero Tolerance for Disruptions
Kunene also issued a stern warning to those responsible for the disruptions, stating that they would face the full force of the law. “If these individuals continue to prevent workers from doing their jobs, the JMPD will enforce the law. Those preventing others from working will be arrested,” he said.
The protests have had a considerable impact on service delivery, particularly in Soweto, where the blockages have persisted for weeks. Kunene expressed frustration at the toll on the community, saying, “For three weeks, these individuals have been preventing workers from doing their jobs, depriving the people of Soweto of essential services.”
With tensions running high, the situation in Johannesburg and Soweto is now under the watchful eye of law enforcement, as the City seeks to restore order and ensure the public receives the services they deserve.
