Tension gripped parts of Kimberley in the Northern Cape as seven people, including a minor, were arrested for public violence during a failed shutdown protest. The group allegedly blocked the N8 road near the Kimberley Airport in Greenpoint, leading to police intervention.
The protest stemmed from growing frustration among residents who marched to the Premier’s office to demand major changes in local governance. Their calls included dissolving the Sol Plaatje Municipality council, removing the council speaker, and investigating alleged corruption.
Residents voiced deep dissatisfaction over deteriorating services — citing frequent sewage overflows, soaring electricity costs, and poor infrastructure. They also called for the dismissal of the Municipal Manager and other underperforming officials.
One of the protest organisers, Boyce Makoti, expressed the community’s grievances:
“All we want are basic, affordable services. We need jobs and respect. The sewage crisis must end, and municipal leaders must be held accountable.”
The community’s frustration was palpable.
“I am unhappy. I’m here today because the premier’s cabinet is failing us. We are suffering — the elderly are suffering,” one protestor lamented.
Another added, “We’re sick and tired of corrupt officials who face no consequences.”
The Premier, while receiving the group’s memorandum, acknowledged their concerns but clarified that he lacks the authority to remove mayors or dissolve councils. He explained that such powers lie with the ANC’s Provincial and National Executive Committees.
Ahead of the protest, the municipality urged residents to report corruption through proper legal channels and dismissed some of the group’s claims as misinformation.
Despite this, the action group has vowed to continue their push, promising to return to the streets if their demands remain unmet.