Water War Erupts in Lephalale, DA Blasts ANC Over ‘Backroom Deals’ Amid Taps Crisis

LEPHALALE –  Democratic Alliance (DA) intensified calls on Thursday for urgent action to address severe water shortages at Mahlakung informal settlement in Lephalale, while accusing the ruling African National Congress (ANC) of political interference in a local infrastructure project.

DA Caucus Leader Sybil Nieuwoudt said 700 residents rely on three communal taps, calling the situation a “human rights crisis” perpetuating unhygienic conditions.

The party formally appealed to municipal authorities and the national water department to install additional standpipes and draft a time-bound infrastructure plan.

Nieuwoudt accused ANC Mayor Aron Mokgetle of improperly appointing ANC Councillor Joel Madibana as liaison officer for a water-pipe replacement project in Onverwacht’s Wards 3 and 4, alleging the move bypassed hiring protocols and excluded DA input.

The DA vowed to push for an independent probe into the recruitment process and accountability measures against Mokgetle.

“Water scarcity here is not just infrastructure failure—it reflects systemic exclusion,” Nieuwoudt stated, condemning alleged ANC “backroom deals” undermining equitable service delivery.

The party pledged to oppose political patronage, asserting “services belong to the people, not insiders.”