Opinion by Kamohelo Teele – The collapse of the mine dam wall in Jagersfontein is a consequence of gross negligence, corruption and Incompetence from both the mine and political predecessors.
The immediate interventions from Local, Provincial and National Government Sphere, NGOs, Private sector and R20 Million committed by the mine itself is not sustainable.
Real battle shall begin when there is a loss of Public Interest when the mine have to pay for the reparations for the damages, loss of lives, injuries, damage to property, road and infrastructure in Jaggersfontein.
I fear two things might happen:
- The ANC which is today presiding over the state is scared of White Monopoly Capital (Minorities who owns the mine, bank, minerals and strategic assets of the Country). This was evident in Marikana where 37 mine workers were brutalized, killed and massacred for fighting for improved living wages and safe working conditions. To this day, families of the deceased and those injured have not been remunerated. There are allegations that a well known Bourgeoisie and Capitalist Johan Rupert owns the mine in Jaggersfontein and it is the same Rupert who is also alleged to have pocketed the President, NEC Members and some members of the Cabinet. To resolve this mess, you need a collective Political approach, a Mayor of Kopanong cannot be expected to fight this battle alone.
- The Political and EXECUTIVE Leadership in JAGGERSFONTEIN might not be able to fulfil the Political programme of changing the conditions of the People of Kopanong, to create sustainable jobs, skills development, education and building a City to attract investment and expand the economy of Xhaiep because there is a high possibility that in the next 3-5 financial years monies will be channeled in dealing with this mining disaster.
The ANC is a Movement of Cowards who thrive on leveraging Political expediency. Forget about Accountability and justice to the people of Kopanong, another Marikana in different form and shape.
Written by Kamohelo Teele
Disability and Youth Activist
—————————————————————
DO YOU HAVE A NEWS STORY OR AN OPINION FOR CENTRAL NEWS: E-mail us : newsroom@centralnews.co.za or Whatsapp us on 0833989119