Days ago, leading agricultural publication Landbou.com reported that South Africa had experienced up to 40% more cold units this year when compared to the same period last year. Cold units refers to the accumulated time a crop spends below a specific low temperature.

“To Boplaas, cold weather is our opportunity to talk about the great qualities of port,” says veteran port producer Carel Nel. “It’s enjoyable throughout the year, but is most welcome when temperatures are low.”

The attraction of port wine during cold weather may be attributed to several factors, apart from its warming characteristics. Descriptions often associate it with the comforting richness of sweets like fudge, fruitcake, and preserves as well as pudding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, with ripe fruit.

 “On cold rainy evenings, there is nothing better than a bottle of Boplaas Cape Port in front of the fire,” says Carel.

On this count, Boplaas has a range that caters to every taste and occasion.

Boplaas Cape Ruby is a top-seller in South Africa. Its gemstone ​​blush and notes of red berry, plum and violets are supported into the long finish by well-integrated alcohol. It is made from Tinta Barroca and vinified in open fermenters or traditional Portuguese lagars. It is then matured for two to three years before bottling. It is ideal to drink on its own, or before and after meals.

The Boplaas Cape Vintage Reserve 2020 is a complex port with dark colour and intense fruit. Notes include black berry, plum and chocolate. While drinkable now, soft tannins give it the potential to age for beyond 50 years. The port is a regular award-winner, having received Veritas Double Gold and five stars from Platter’s South African wine guide. Platter’s also named it Port of the Year.

The Boplaas Cape Tawny N/V has a typical tawny colour thanks to 10 years of barrel ageing. It shows fruitcake, dry apricot and nuts along with dried orange peel and a long finish. The port is also a Veritas Double Gold winner.

The Boplaas 2007 Cape Tawny Colheita was aged for 16 years in old Portuguese oak barrels. It too has a tawny colour and displays nuttiness, intense dried citrus, rich caramel and fruitcake. Tempered in sweetness, the port provides a long and lingering finish.

Amongst the accolades that Boplaas has received as applies to port, are the title of Best Port at both the National Wine Challenge/Top 100 SA Wines and South African Terroir Wine Awards.

Boplaas wines, ports and spirits are available at fine retailers across South Africa, and can also be ordered online from www.boplaas.co.za. Shipping is free on all orders over R2 000, and only available in South Africa. Get maximum benefits on Boplaas releases when you sign up – via the website – as a member of its wine and whisky club.

For more information, email admin@boplaas.co.za, call 044 213 3326 or visit www.boplaas.co.za. Boplaas is also on Facebook and Instagram.

Die oudit handel oor basiese veiligheidsverwante kwessies soos die toestand van omheinings, voldoende beligting en die teenwoordigheid van sekuriteitskameras. Dit is só ontwerp dat die betrokke skool dit kan gebruik om kwesbare gebiede te identifiseer en op te knap. Die oudit stel ook skole in staat om gebeurlikheidsplanne vir verskeie moontlikhede in te stel, waaronder brande, vloede, gewelddadige protesaksies of ontvoerings.

AfriForum het onlangs onwettige besetters verwyder uit die ou begraafplaas wat teenaan die skool grens. Die skool het erge verliese gely nadat die besetters die skoolterrein betree en infrastruktuur beskadig het. Die besetters het ook die heining van die skool erg beskadig, wat ‘n groot risiko skep.

“Dit is van kardinale belang dat kinders in ‘n veilige omgewing kan skoolgaan. Misdadigers beskou skole dikwels as ‘n sagte teiken, daarom is dit belangrik om proaktief te wees. AfriForum beveilig gemeenskappe as ‘n geheel – nie net woonbuurte nie – daarom sal die burgerregteorganisasie nie toelaat dat misdaad ‘n vastrapplek kry nie,” sê Marthinus Erasmus, AfriForum se distrikskoördineerder vir die Suid-Kaap.

AfriForum het ook oudits beskikbaar vir kerke en plase. AfriForum wil graag jou skool of kerk oudit en jou gemeenskap nóg veiliger maak.

Sluit vandag nog aan by AfriForum se Oudtshoorn-tak en help hulle om meer te doen. Stuur ‘n e-pos na marthinus.erasmus@afriforum.co.za of skakel Erasmus by 081 216 9602. 

Marthinus Erasmus

Distrikskoördineerder: Suid-Kaap

AfriForum

Sel: 081 216 9602

Epos: marthinus.erasmus@afriforum.co.za

V.l.n.r. Benedict Pote, Donovan Kleinhans (AfriForum-takvoorsitter), Marinda de Jager, Hester Malan

The cello, harp, violin, viola, double bass and more take centre stage in Oudtshoorn at this festival of classical music, art, books, food and wine from Friday 8 to Sunday 10 August.

Rosamund Roth (cello), Liesl Stoltz (flute) and José Dias (piano) open the music programme of the 16th Klein Karoo Klassique with Trio du Cap Classique (8 August 10:00). Their vibrant programme includes Mozart’s Piano Trio in B-flat Major, K. 502; Goossens’s Five Impressions of a Holiday and Farrenc’s Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano in E minor, Op. 45. The recital is followed by a free music discussion with the artists.

The Little Maestros concert series (8 and 9 August 12:30) returns, to introduce young audiences to the harp, with Jana van der Walt (harp) and Magdalene Minnaar (violin & presenter). Classical music is a powerful developmental tool for young children, supporting brain development and enhancing concentration. These immersive recitals offer a relaxed environment where young ears can explore the music of Mozart, Bach and other beloved classical composers.

Petrus de Beer (violin), Renée van der Westhuizen (violin), Emile de Roubaix (viola) and Anjulie de Vos-Nock (cello) perform in Alive String Quartet in Concert (8 August 14:00). This string quartet blends classical and contemporary music with engaging storytelling and narration, celebrating the timeless allure of classical string instruments. The programme includes beloved works by composers such as Vivaldi, Haydn, Beethoven and Piazzolla, alongside modern hits infused with a classical touch by The Beatles, Coldplay and more. A free music discussion with the musicians follows the recital.

In Glass House: A Journey Through Minimalist Masterpieces (9 August 09:30) the Alive String Quartet joins Steinway Artist Charl du Plessis (piano) to explore the hypnotic beauty and rhythmic brilliance of minimalist music. The programme features work by Philip Glass, Steve Reich, Arvo Pärt, Max Richter and Michael Nyman, for a recital that traverses decades of minimalist innovation. From the meditative calm of Pärt’s Spiegel im Spiegel to the pulsating energy of Philip Glass’s The Hours, this recital offers a richly textured and immersive listening experience.

The Cape Town Festival Orchestra, conducted by Richard Cock, returns for the Klein Karoo Klassique Gala Concert (9 August 19:30). Strings share the stage with Nonhlanhla Yende (mezzo-soprano) and the Charl du Plessis Trio [Du Plessis (piano), Werner Spies (double bass) and Peter Auret (drums)]. The programme includes a new orchestral arrangement of Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, opera arias by Mozart and music by Vivaldi, Bach and Beethoven.

In Journey of the Soul (10 August 09:30) Roth (cello) is joined by Féroll-Jon Davids (clarinet) and Megan-Geoffrey Prins (piano), for a recital centred around storytelling and fantasy. The programme features evocative works by Schumann, Muczynski and Brahms, composed for the unique instrumental combination of the clarinet, cello, and piano, and unified by the theme of imagination and mysticism.

In addition to the string-focused performances, festivalgoers can look forward to other recitals, including: Klavierkoors (8 August 19:30), Trio AéroClave (9 August 13:30), Zorada se katedraal en kaperjol (9 August 16:30) and Voces Cordis, conducted by André van der Merwe (10 August 12:30).

A limited number of Klassique Packages are available, offering access to all nine recitals at a saving of over 20%. Tickets can be purchased online or from the KKNK office. Remaining tickets will also be on sale at the door before each recital.

Klein Karoo Klassique is presented by the KKNK, made possible by the Rupert Music Foundation and the ATKV, with the support from Le Lude and the Oudtshoorn Municipality.  

Accommodation sponsors for this winter festival include Aloe Manor, Bakenskraal Ostrich Palace, Beit Shalom Guesthouse, Hlangana Lodge, Kleinplaas Holiday Resort, Mooiplaas Guest House, Queen’s Hotel, Ravenscliff Manor and Rosenhof Country House.

For more information, visit klassique.co.za or contact the KKNK office via email at info@kunste.org.za, by phone at 044 203 8600 or send a WhatsApp to 065 285 2337.

Forming part of the broader Jimny Gathering weekend, this fun-filled celebration of life, freedom and the unmistakable Suzuki spirit will rock the historic Oudtshoorn Recreation Ground with an incredible line-up of homegrown musical talent. Partygoers can expect to revel in energetic live performances from headlining acts such as Jeremy Loops, Spoegwolf, Karen Zoid and Port Elizabeth rap sensation Early B – among others. 

“The first Suzuki Safari Town Festival exceeded all our expectations – the energy, the turnout, the sense of community. It set the tone for something truly special,” says Henk van der Schyf, event organiser. 

“For 2025, we’ve taken everything people loved and turned it up a notch. More music, more adventure and more ways to celebrate the spirit of Suzuki and the beautiful Karoo town of Oudtshoorn. We can’t wait to welcome everybody back.”

While live music is most certainly the main attraction, Suzuki and the event organisers have arranged for a large selection of food and refreshment vendors to add an extra level of enjoyment to proceedings. On top of this, festival goers can delight in various craft bars, a large kids entertainment area and opportunities throughout the day to meet and mingle with the performing artists – including comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout who returns as the event’s official MC, bringing his signature wit, charm and humour.

Though Jimny Gathering is tailored for Suzuki Jimny owners and 4×4 enthusiasts – with four days of trails and adventure set to play out in the nearby Outeniqua Mountains – the Suzuki Safari Town Festival is open to the public. Everyone is welcome, whether you drive a Jimny or simply want to enjoy great music and lots of ‘gees’ under the Karoo sun.

“Suzuki is a brand for all South Africans. While we have some exciting activities planned specifically for Jimny owners, we also wanted to make sure that everyone visiting Oudtshoorn for the weekend can join in the fun,” explains Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager at Suzuki Auto South Africa. 

“Our first Suzuki Safari Town Festival in Clarens was filled with good vibes and plenty of lekker people, and we’re expecting this edition to be even better. We’re looking forward to seeing you all at the main stage!”

Tickets range from R60 to R250 and will be available at www.safaritown.co.za.

MotorPress

Child Protection Week is commemorated annually in South Africa from May 29th to June 5th to raise awareness about the rights of children and the importance of protecting them from violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This year, the theme is “Working together in ending violence against children.

The programme commenced with visits to Chris Nissen crèche, Klein Handtjies, and Mina Moo crèche, where interactive sessions focused on child safety, abuse prevention, and emergency contact information were delivered in a manner suitable for young children.

At Rooirivier Primary and Avontuur LB Primary School, learners engaged with drama performances highlighting various forms of abuse, particularly those that may occur over weekends. This creative approach proved effective in raising awareness among older learners.

Through this important initiative, over 370 learners were reached, strengthening awareness around child protection and encouraging active community participation in safeguarding children’s rights.

This festival of classical music, art, books, food and wine is presented for the 16th time in the Klein Karoo from Friday 8 to Sunday 10 August.

Maestro Richard Cock and the Cape Town Festival Orchestra are returning for the Klein Karoo Klassique Gala Concert (9 August 19:30), joined on stage by the ever-popular Charl du Plessis Trio and rising opera star Nonhlanhla Yende. The programme includes Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata in a brand-new arrangement for orchestra, opera arias by Mozart and music by Vivaldi and Bach. Yende is part of a new generation of brilliant young singers making waves on the South African music scene, performing some of the most popular arias from the operatic repertoire to round off this memorable concert.

Voces Cordis, conducted by award-winning choir director André van der Merwe, will perform at Klassique for the first time (10 August 12:30), presenting sacred choral works by composers such as Andrey Makor and Jacob Handl, contemporary pieces by Laura Jēkabsone and Jacob Collier, a Latvian folksong, and “Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel” by Mia Makaroff. The choir will also share their interpretation of the beloved Afrikaans piece “Voshaarnooi.

Zorada Temmingh returns to Klassique for the first time since 2009, with Zorada se katedraal en kaperjol (9 August 16:30). She is regarded as one of South Africa’s foremost improvisors on the organ, performing works by popular organ composers such as Johann Pachelbel and Léon Boëllmann, along with her own compositions and improvisations on church hymns.

An unforgettable piano extravaganza awaits on Friday evening (8 August 19:30) in Klavierkoors. Nina Schumann, Megan-Geoffrey Prins, José Dias and Charl du Plessis will share the stage with works for four, six, and eight hands, including music by Rachmaninoff, Schubert, and even unexpected gems by John Lennon – blending classical tradition with a contemporary twist.

Three trios are featured in the programme. In Trio du Cap Classique (8 August 10:00) Liesl Stoltz (flute), Rosamund Roth (cello) and José Dias (piano) play music by Mozart, Eugene Goossens and Louise Farrenc. Trio AéroClave (9 August 13:30) featuring Louisa Theart (flute), Férrol-Jon Davids (clarinet) and Nina Schumann (piano) will present a programme of music by Bach, Brahms, Villa-Lobos, Saint-Saëns, John Rutter, Hendrik Hofmeyr and Guillaume Connesson. In Journey of the Soul (10 August 09:30) Féroll-Jon Davids (clarinet), Rosamund Roth (cello) and Megan-Geoffrey Prins (piano) will perform a selection of music by Schumann, Muczynski and Brahms.

For Alive String Quartet in Concert (8 August 14:00), Petrus de Beer (violin), Renée van der Westhuizen (violin), Emile de Roubaix (viola) and Anjulie de Vos-Nock (cello) will blend classical and contemporary music with engaging storytelling and compelling narration. Beloved classics by composers such as Vivaldi, Haydn, Beethoven and Piazzolla are included, alongside modern hits infused with a classical touch by The Beatles, Coldplay and more.

The hypnotic beauty and rhythmic brilliance of minimalist music are showcased in Glass House (9 August 09:30), featuring works by iconic composers including Philip Glass, Steve Reich, Arvo Pärt, Max Richter and Michael Nyman. Presented by a dynamic quintet of South African virtuosos – Charl du Plessis (piano), Petrus de Beer (violin), Renée van der Westhuizen (violin), Emile de Roubaix (viola) and Anjulie de Vos-Nock (cello) – the audience will embark on a journey through decades of minimalist innovation.

A limited number of Klassique Packages are available, providing an opportunity for festivalgoers to attend all nine recitals at a saving of more than 20%. Tickets can be purchased online, or at any Checkers, Shoprite, Usave or the KKNK office. Available tickets will also be on sale at the door before recitals.

The Little Maestros concert series returns (8 and 9 August 12:30) and this time the young audiences learn more about the harp from harpist Jana van der Walt and Magdalene Minnaar (violin and presenter). This concert, specially designed for the youngest listeners, offers a relaxed environment where little ears can explore music by Mozart, Bach and other beloved classical composers.

Each day of the festival begins with a Breakfast Concert at 08:00, where classical music is combined with a delicious breakfast menu. These concerts are free to attend and are presented in the Banqueting Hall.

Music discussions will follow selected recitals, hosted by Charl du Plessis. Three Book Discussions are also presented, made possible by NB Publishers. PJO Jonker discusses his book Die Onsigbare (8 August 16:00), Juliette Mnqeta her book If The Dead Could Talk (9 August 10:45) and Willem Anker will discuss Patmos (10 August 11:00).

René Scribante has curated a visual arts exhibition under the theme Sacred Pulse, inviting viewers into a sensory dialogue in which sound becomes image and movement transforms into form. Works from both established and emerging artists from the Klein Karoo and greater Southern Cape will be included. A walkabout through the artworks will take place on 8 August at 17:00 in the Banqueting Hall.

The Oudtshoorn ReWOLusie invites everyone to join them in knitting and crocheting to make a difference in the community. Oudtshoorn’s very own coffee master Johan Breunissen will present an exploration of coffee in Africa on 9 August at 08:00 in Afrika-koffie vs. Afrika-droëwors. RJ Tours will host a Historiese wandeltoer (Historical walking tour) daily at 08:00 and De Rustica Olive Estate will offer various opportunities for festivalgoers to taste their award-winning olive oil in Olyf tot olyfolie.

The Klassique Festival Restaurant serves delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, with other delicacies available throughout the day. A selection of wines and LeLude MCC will also be served.

Klein Karoo Klassique is presented by the KKNK, made possible by the Rupert Music Foundation and the ATKV, with the support of Le Lude and the Oudtshoorn Municipality.  

Accommodation sponsors for this winter festival are Aloe Manor, Bakenskraal Ostrich Palace, Beit Shalom Guesthouse, Hlangana Lodge, Kleinplaas Holiday Resort, Mooiplaas Guest House, Queen’s Hotel, Ravenscliff Manor and Rosenhof Country House.

For more information, visit klassique.co.za or contact the KKNK office via email at info@kunste.org.za, by phone at 044 203 8600 or send a WhatsApp to 065 285 2337.

Highlights on the programme of the 16th Klein Karoo Klassique in Oudtshoorn include the Klein Karoo Klassique Gala Concert, Voces Cordis, Zorada Temmingh and performances by Charl du Plessis.

Upon her arrival at the Oudtshoorn Municipality, the Deputy Minister was received in front of the main building by Deputy Mayor Alderman Mziwoxolo Tyatya, Speaker Suzane Jansen, councillors, and senior municipal officials. The visit began with a formal briefing session in the Council Chambers, led by the Speaker of Council, where Deputy Mayor Tyatya delivered the official welcome. A detailed project presentation was delivered by Ms Lauren Jones, Manager of Human Settlements at the Municipality.

Following the engagement, the delegation proceeded to Bongolethu for the official handover of newly constructed homes that replaced longstanding mud houses. These homes are part of a broader development aimed at improving living conditions for residents.  A total of 11 houses were officially handed over, with the remaining units currently under construction. The Human Settlements Department continues to work diligently to complete the remainder of the project, and all remaining houses will be handed over to beneficiaries upon completion.

Deputy Minister Mahambehlala emphasised the importance of not only building houses but also restoring legal ownership to residents. Reflecting on the Dysselsdorp RDP Phase 1 Project, she stated, “A title deed is not just a piece of paper; it gives validation, security, and a sense of ownership to new homeowners. The Title Deed Restoration Programme is just as important as the handover of houses, because it speaks to the lived reality and long-standing plight of the people of South Africa.”

During the briefing session, the Deputy Minister further expressed appreciation for the constructive working relationship between her department and the Municipality, saying that they are delighted to work with the Oudtshoorn Municipality.

In his remarks, Deputy Mayor Tyatya reflected on the deep historical importance of this development, saying that this is more than a construction project. “It represents dignity restored and lives improved.”

As part of the day’s programme, the handover of houses symbolised a step forward in addressing long-standing historical injustices, while a memorial service and wreath-laying honoured the memory of the Bongolethu 3, which is 3 young men who lost their lives during the struggle against apartheid.” He paid tribute to generations past who suffered during the apartheid-era displacements and reinforced the community’s collective memory of their sacrifice.

Deputy Mayor Tyatya also connected the handover to broader themes of remembrance during Youth Month, “As we honour the youth of 1976, we must also remember the Bongolethu 3 — young men who were brutally killed by Apartheid forces in 1985. Their names must be etched in the history of our town and country. Oudtshoorn must be remembered as a place where black, white, and coloured people stood together in the fight for freedom.”

A total of 25 families are set to benefit from this housing development in Bongolethu. The Deputy Mayor praised the persistence of community members past and present who contributed to this achievement, extending congratulations to Ward 4 Councillor Nomsa Jaxa for her resilience, and acknowledging the work of former councillors as well.

He further acknowledged the ongoing support from Deputy Minister Mahambehlala and her consistent presence in Oudtshoorn and backing of initiatives. “We have seen the impact of your efforts, and we are truly grateful. Your dedication does not go unnoticed in our communities.”

The Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality remains committed to advancing inclusive development and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and dignified housing. The Municipality expresses its appreciation to the national Department of Human Settlements for its continued partnership in changing lives and building a better future.

Background

Several plots in Bongolethu were transferred to individuals before 1994. Over time, some beneficiaries developed their properties independently, while others remained undeveloped or were built using mud, resulting in unsafe living conditions.

In 2017, concerns were formally raised with the provincial Department of Human Settlements regarding the deteriorating state of these mud houses. An engineering assessment found that 18 houses needed demolition, 7 were vacant, and 73 required repairs. Affected homeowners signed consent forms for demolition where necessary.

The plots are located across various avenues in Bongolethu, a fully serviced residential area. Following community engagement and verification, the Bongolethu Consolidation Project was initiated. By 2023, formal applications, house plans, title deeds, and powers of attorney were submitted to the province for processing.

To date, 25 new houses have been built, and on 13 June 2025, 11 more were handed over. While progress continues, some families are still waiting, including those who have had to register estates after the passing of loved ones.

“This is not negotiable – all special events must be formally approved before they take place,” he stressed. “Any gathering outside of the norm, a concert, a conference, or a cultural exhibition – if it involves people gathering for a specific purpose, it’s considered an event and must be declared.”

Alderman Allers made this clear during the Events Committee meeting held on Thursday, 12 June 2025, which he chairs. He explained that the term event includes a broad range of activities: entertainment, recreation, education, cultural and religious gatherings, business-related functions, charitable drives, exhibitions, conferences, and organised activities, as defined in relevant municipal regulations.

The requirement is set out in the Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality’s Policy on Public Gatherings and Special Events, based on the Municipal Systems Act, 2000 (Act 32 of 2000) and local by-laws.

The mayor warned that municipal law enforcement officers are authorised to immediately shut down any unauthorised event.

“There’s no minimum number of people that qualifies something as an event. If it’s outside the ordinary and it involves public activity, it must be reported. This is about safety, accountability, and compliance,” he concluded.

Please click on link for more information:

ADVERT-EVENTS-APPLICATIONS.pdf

Photo: Alderman Johan Allers chairing the Events Committee meeting.

The launch was led by Mr. Brian Lucas, Assistant Sports Development Officer, who served as Programme Director. The Deputy Mayor of the Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality, Alderman Mziwoxolo Tyatya, delivered the official welcome, followed by a message from the Executive Mayor, Alderman Johan Allers.

In his welcoming address, Deputy Mayor Tyatya quoted the words of Nelson Mandela, stating: “Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.”

Executive Mayor Allers emphasised the broader impact of the festival, saying: “These sporting events are also job creation opportunities and contribute to economic growth in Oudtshoorn. It has always been my stance that opportunities must be created in Oudtshoorn that can ensure a better life for the residents of our town.”

Jean Neethling from the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), which plays a key supporting role in the festival both financially and logistically, expressed excitement about the upcoming Oudtshoorn Sports Festival, noting that DCAS is looking forward to an action-packed and successful event.

Johnny Bisschoff, organiser of the South African Majorettes and Cheerleading Association (SAMCA) Nationals, also addressed attendees with a detailed overview of their highly anticipated national championship, which will take place in Oudtshoorn from 4 to 11 July 2025.

Mr. Ian Avontuur, Director Corporate Services,  delivered a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all stakeholders for their commitment in making the festival a reality.

The Executive Mayor wishes the sports people all the best during the Sports Festival and says that “this is more than just a sports event, it’s a celebration of who we are,” said Executive Mayor Allers.  He further stated that “sport builds bridges, teaches teamwork, resilience, and pride. That’s the spirit we celebrate at the Sports Festival.”

“You show our youth what’s possible through hard work, respect, and dedication. Thank you for leading by example.”

The Municipality extends its appreciation to all local sports clubs, schools, federations, volunteers and sponsors contributing to the success of the 2025 festival.

The Oudtshoorn Sports Festival 2025 runs from mid-June to late July.  The full calendar of events are as follows:

“As die munisipaliteit nie eers daartoe in staat is om op ’n PAIA-aansoek te reageer nie, sidder ons om te dink hoe daar te werk gegaan word om munisipale amptenare te keur en aan te stel,” sê Marthinus Erasmus, AfriForum se distrikskoördineerder vir die Suid-Kaap.

Nadat die nuwe munisipale bestuurder se permanente aanstelling in April aangekondig is, het AfriForum hom tot die burgemeester gewend om inligting rakende die aanstellingsproses en sy voldoening aan die wetlike vereistes van die pos, te versoek. Die burgemeester se kantoor het egter geweier om die inligting te verskaf en AfriForum na die Wes-Kaapse LUR vir Plaaslike Regering, Omgewingsake en Ontwikkelingsbeplanning, verwys.

AfriForum het nietemin op 23 April die burgemeester se kantoor besoek en ’n PAIA-aansoek ingedien, asook kennisgewings per e-pos aan beide die burgemeester en die LUR se kantore gestuur. Dié versoek moes volgens wetgewing binne 30 dae beantwoord word, maar steeds is geen reaksie ontvang nie. AfriForum het daarom ’n interne appèl ingedien om die munisipaliteit te dwing om op hierdie PAIA-versoek te reageer.

AfriForum poog sedert September verlede jaar om in gesprek te tree met Yekani, wat toe as munisipale bestuurder waargeneem het, oor verskeie diensleweringskwessies in die munisipale gebied, maar Yekani het alle versoeke vir vergaderings bloot geïgnoreer.

“Dit is ’n kommerwekkende patroon van minagting wat die munisipaliteit weer ten toon stel. Inwoners het die reg om te weet watse amptenare hulle verteenwoordig, daarom is dit van uiterse belang dat die munisipaliteit deeglik met amptelike prosesse omgaan om orde te handhaaf,” sê Erasmus.

AfriForum sal voortgaan om as ’n waghond vir burgerregte op te tree en te verseker dat inwoners se regte beskerm word.

Sluit vandag nog by AfriForum se Oudtshoorn-tak aan. Stuur ’n e-pos na marthinus.erasmus@afriforum.co.za of skakel 081 216 9602 vir meer inligting. 

Marthinus Erasmus

Distrikskoördineerder: Suid-Kaap

AfriForum

Epos: marthinus.erasmus@afriforum.co.za