The Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport (DPWRT) strongly condemns the ongoing disruptions, intimidation and unlawful closure of the construction site by so-called “mafia contractors” at the Mpumalanga Parliamentary Village in the City of Mbombela.
The Department is deeply concerned that the Mpumalanga Parliamentary Village project, which is at an advanced stage and nearing completion, continues to experience unnecessary disruptions and site closures orchestrated by individuals who are acting outside the confines of the law. These acts of intimidation are not only delaying progress, but are also threatening the safety of workers and undermining service delivery to the people of Mpumalanga.
The Department wishes to place it on record that a court order was duly issued against those responsible for disrupting activities at the Parliamentary Village project. However, the individuals concerned continue to disregard and violate the court order with impunity, placing themselves in direct contempt of court.
The Department calls upon the South African Police Service ( SAPS) to urgently enforce the existing court orders and ensure that the rule of law prevails. Failure to act decisively against such lawlessness risks emboldening criminal elements and further destabilising critical infrastructure projects intended to improve the lives of communities.
These continuous disruptions have serious financial and developmental implications for government. Delays in project implementation inevitably lead to escalating costs, prolonged completion timelines, and delayed access to critical public infrastructure and services for communities.
The Department therefore urges members of the public and surrounding communities not to associate themselves with criminal activities masquerading as community grievances or business interests. Infrastructure development projects are meant to benefit communities through improved services, economic stimulation and employment opportunities, and must therefore be protected.
The Department further calls upon civil society formations, community leaders and all law-abiding residents to play an active role in safeguarding ongoing developments within their respective areas and to reject acts of intimidation, extortion and criminality.
The Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport under the leadership of MEC Thulasizwe Thomo remains committed to ensuring the successful completion of all strategic infrastructure projects across the province in line with its mandate of delivering quality public infrastructure and services to the people of Mpumalanga.
ENDS...
Issued by the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport.
For more information, please contact Mr Bongani Dhlamini on 0792936515