MTHATHA EASTERN CAPE FLOODS @KASIBC_AFRICA

MTHATHA EASTERN CAPE FLOODS @KASIBC_AFRICA

ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) once again reiterates its sadness and sends its condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have been affected by the devastating floods in Mthatha, Eastern Cape. 

The death toll due to the floods stands at 101-people, with untold damage having occurred to homes and infrastructure as families continue to try and piece their lives together. 

The untold trauma of survivors who saw their homes, their families, their children and fellow South Africans lose their lives may take decades of healing and psychological help must be provided to survivors immediately. On the 28th of June 2025 the Commander in Chief and President of the EFF Julius Malema, the EFF Secretary General Marshall Dlamini alongside his Majesty King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo visited the hardest hit areas by the floods, including the centres that are now home to destitute and homeless South Africans. Additionally, the President and his Majesty attended the funeral of 14-year-old Siyavuya Mkatshane, who tragically lost his life after being swept away by floods on his way to school. 

The most disheartening aspect of the visits, was the absence of government officials at the centres and the lack of involvement of both provincial and national government in assisting these families with burials while their lives have been torn apart. To witness and hear the painful stories of neglect of survivors and bereaved families was a sign of a lack of compassion and humanity by government which must be condemned.

Instead, the Premier of the Eastern Cape Province Oscar Mabuyane has opted to take a family leave in the midst of one of the worst disasters and loss of life in our nations history. To make matters worse, the parasitic nature of government officials has once again reared its ugly head as residents told of irregular placements of survivors in residential properties at exorbitant prices. 

It has become clear that politically aligned individuals have utilised this human tragedy to enrich themselves by placing homeless residents in their B&B’s at a cost to the state. 

These resources could be better utilised to rebuild the lives of those affected, assist with burials and repair the lives of children who still need uniform to go to school. The EFF commends the AbaThembu King for his presence which was emphasised by community members in all community meetings held at the rescue centres. 

The resounding plea from all residents was the need for placement on suitable land to avoid disasters of this nature ever occurring again, and the EFF will work hand in hand with the AbaThembu Kingdom to ensure safe land is provided to the people for purposes of settlement. 

The EFF commends institutions such as Gift of the Givers for their role in providing relief and calls on law enforcement agencies to protect such institutions from extortion rings and criminals who undermine efforts to alleviate the challenges of our people. 

We call on those who are known for their philanthropy and charitable deeds in society, in particular Dr Patrice Motsepe, Robert Gumede, Mike Teke, Dr Mike Nuna, Dr Irvin Khoza, Dr Kaizer Motaung and many others to turn their hearts to the people of Mthatha. 

We call on industry, particularly mobile network operators such as Vodacom, MTN, retail and clothing outlets such as Makro, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, PEP, Mr Price and many more to take up their social responsibility and assist the people of Mthatha. If indeed the private sector is operating with goodwill in our country and envisions a social compact that will move away from viewing South Africans as subjects for profit maximisation, then now is the time to show it. 

The EFF will continue to support the flood victims through our Public Representatives and will monitor each and every cent allocated by National Treasury to provide relief to ensure that it is used for the right purposes and not looted by cruel and inhumane politicians. Let us unite and assist the people of Mthatha in their time of need.  

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