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The DA will lay charges at the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) against the acting municipal manager of Letaba Local municipality, Matome Lekhotha, for his continued failure to fix the sewage leaks between the houses in Mokgoba village.

The charges are for contravening Section 107 of the National Environmental Management Act and Section 24 of the Constitution for the municipality's failure to protect the environment, and prevent pollution and ecological degradation.

During an oversight to Mokgoba, we found sewage pipes that are either blocked or leaking, and drains overflowing.

Raw sewage further runs through residential areas where children play and chickens feed.

The Mokgoba community has been subjected to health risks and an unbearable stench for over a year.

The DA will no longer allow the community of Mokgoba and the environment to suffer as a result of government failure.

We trust that the SAHRC will prudently investigate the matter and that their recommendations will restore the dignity of the residents of Mokgoba, who deserves to live in a clean and healthy environment.

Issued by Jacques Smalle MPL - DA Political Head for Letaba Local Municipality