People are dying as a direct consequence of decisions made by a former minister, who clearly failed in her custodial role, says Anthon Turton
Just this week, a spokesperson for the presidency noted that his office was unable to intervene in another crisis, because the cooperative governance clause in our constitution prevented one sphere of government from intervening in the activities of another sphere. We must challenge this constitutional weakness and seek clarification from the appropriate court.
How can a constitutional clause be so irrational as to prevent one part of government from intervening in another to avert a catastrophe? How many more lives must be lost to the absurdity of legal protection for those in power while their activities are clearly not in the best interest of society as a whole? Surely, a constitutional democracy is about empowering the citizens by protecting them against the consequences of failed service delivery.
From the depths of despair in the families of those whose lives have been lost to an entirely preventable illness, let us find the strength to rally as one and shout out, ‘enough is enough’. Our noble constitution grants all citizens the right to a better life in an environment that is safe from harm.
Let us restore that dream by demanding that our sewage flows be brought under control. Surely this is the basis of modern civilization, irrespective of political persuasion or ideological preference.Prof Anthony Turton is a water expert from the Centre for Environmental Management at the University of the Free State.In times of uncertainty you need journalism you can trust.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
ANTHONY TURTON | Cholera sewage crisis predicted years ago smiting SAANTHONY TURTON | Cholera sewage crisis predicted years ago smiting SA: This week, our national sewage crisis really began to bite. A media storm has erupted over the cholera outbreak in Hammanskraal, while some families are now grieving for their dead…
Read more »
Ramaphosa: People can get by without electricity but not without waterPresident Cyril Ramaphosa said that government would now be embarking on a programme to reform the water sector, which has now come under the spotlight like the ongoing power crisis.
Read more »
“Regret”: Mzansi nail tech offers tooth gaps, showing her work, people sweatA South African nail tech shared on her page that she also offers tooth gaps. Showing her work in a TikTok clip, the woman had people panicking in the comments.
Read more »
WATCH: Rick Ross shout out leaves people confused | East Coast RadioA recent video of Rick Ross mixing Cassper Nyovest and Kabza De Small's names up has gone viral - and social media isn't letting go at all...
Read more »
Nigeria: Cycling Could Be a Boon for Lagos - but People Fear for Their Safety On BikesAnalysis - With an estimated 16 million residents, Lagos is the most densely populated state in Nigeria. It's under immense pressure to transport its huge population. According to a global ranking of mobility in cities, Lagos was ranked worst out of 60 cities across the world in 2022. Famous for its traffic jams, Lagos has 40% of all the cars registered in Nigeria.
Read more »