The recent R70 million fine imposed on the Lekwa Municipality by the Standerton Magistrates Court for environmental violations has drawn attention to the urgent need for ethical governance practices. The Democratic Alliance in Mpumalanga has applauded the ruling and expressed concern for the compromised livelihoods of residents affected by the municipality’s repeated offenses.
Charges and Negligence
The Lekwa Municipality faced seven charges in total, including failure to comply with waste management licence conditions, unauthorized disposal of waste, non-compliance with a compliance notice, unlawful water usage, and causing significant pollution to the environment. Additionally, the municipality was found guilty of negligent disposition and distribution of raw untreated sewage and not adhering to directives issued.
Concerns and Frustration
The Democratic Alliance has urged the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) to intervene in the Lekwa Municipality’s affairs. The party expressed frustration with the senior officials within the municipality who have repeatedly neglected their responsibilities.
NPA Charges and Violations
The charges brought against Lekwa Municipality by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) relate to incidents occurring between 2017 and 2022. During this period, the municipality distributed and disposed of contaminated water in Standerton, resulting in their failure to comply with the license. Furthermore, the municipality disposed of contaminated waste negligently, causing significant environmental pollution.
Fine and Repairs
The court has allocated the R70 million fine for urgent and necessary repairs of all affected equipment and mandated that proof of expenditure and repairs be submitted to the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land, and Environmental Affairs. An additional R500,000 must also be paid to the Department of Water and the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Land Affairs for liabilities incurred during the investigation.
Importance of Ethical Governance
The Lekwa Municipality’s environmental violations and subsequent fine underscore the critical need for ethical governance practices. The Democratic Alliance’s response highlights their commitment to ensuring accountability and urging relevant parties to intervene. It is crucial that government bodies such as the Department of CoGTA take swift action to ensure adherence to environmental regulations, safeguarding the well-being of citizens and the environment.
The Lekwa Municipality’s environmental offenses and the resounding response from the Democratic Alliance serve as a wake-up call for other municipalities to prioritize ethical governance. The impact on residents’ livelihoods and the environment cannot be underestimated, and it is crucial to take necessary measures to prevent negligence and disregard for environmental regulations.
