ActionSA opposes the R22m statues project by EThekwini Municipality

ActionSA, a political party founded by Herman Mashaba, has taken a stand against the recent decision made by the eThekwini Municipality to allocate a whopping R22 million towards a statues project. This decision has sparked controversy and raised questions about the priorities of the municipality. The eThekwini Municipality, which covers the city of Durban and surrounding areas, has been facing a number of challenges in recent years. These include high unemployment rates, poor service delivery and a struggling economy. With these pressing issues at hand, it is concerning that the municipality has chosen to allocate such a large sum of money towards a project that many deem unnecessary. The statues project, which is said to include the construction of several new statues and the refurbishment of existing ones, has been met with criticism from various sectors of society. Many argue that the money could be better spent on addressing more pressing issues such as job creation, improving service delivery and investing in infrastructure. ActionSA has been vocal in their opposition to this decision, with Mashaba stating that the allocation of R22 million towards statues is a clear indication of misplaced priorities. He further added that this decision is a slap in the face to the people of eThekwini who are struggling to make ends meet. It is important to note that this is not the first time the eThekwini Municipality has come under fire for their expenditure on statues. In 2016, the municipality spent over R6 million on a statue of former President Nelson Mandela, which was met with widespread criticism and backlash. The decision to allocate R22 million towards statues also raises concerns about transparency and accountability within the municipality. It is essential for government entities to be transparent and accountable for their spending, especially when it involves such large sums of money. Furthermore, the allocation of R22 million towards statues goes against the principles of good governance. Good governance entails using public funds in a responsible and efficient manner, with the aim of improving the lives of citizens. It is clear that this decision does not align with these principles. ActionSA has called on the eThekwini Municipality to reconsider their decision and redirect the funds towards more pressing issues. This sentiment is shared by many citizens who believe that their tax money should be used for the betterment of their communities, not on unnecessary projects. In light of the current economic climate, it is vital for government entities to prioritize their spending and ensure that it benefits the people. The decision to allocate R22 million towards statues is not only wasteful, but it also undermines the struggles and challenges faced by the people of eThekwini. In conclusion, ActionSA stands firm in their opposition to the decision made by the eThekwini Municipality to allocate R22 million towards a statues project. This decision is not only misguided but also goes against the principles of good governance. It is our hope that the municipality will reconsider and prioritize the needs of its citizens above unnecessary projects. Let us all work towards a better, more accountable government that puts the needs of its people first.