Note to broadcasters: Please find attached an audio clip by MPP Isaac Sileku
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape has reported the Knysna Municipality to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) following a disturbing incident where residents were subjected to drinking water contaminated with a deceased individual found in a water reservoir.
The Municipality’s negligence in ensuring the safety and security of the reservoir is unacceptable.
Their failure to prevent such an occurrence is a clear breach of their duty. Not only has this led to the arduous and costly task of cleaning and blasting all water pipes with dry ice, but it has also endangered the lives of residents who unknowingly consumed contaminated water.
By failing to provide clean and safe drinking water, the Municipality has egregiously violated the fundamental human rights of Knysna residents. We urgently call upon the South African Human Rights Commission to launch a comprehensive investigation into the actions of the Knysna Municipality and hold them accountable for their disregard for the well-being and rights of the community.
MPP Isaac Sileku expressing his concern said: “Although the Western Cape Government stepped in and cleaned the water pipes and reservoir with dry ice, the ANC/PA-led Knysna Municipality’s negligence and lack of oversight have placed residents in grave danger of contracting infectious bacteria, viruses, and parasites, potentially leading to severe illness or even death.
Permitting residents to consume water from a reservoir contaminated with a deceased individual is utterly unacceptable. Immediate action must be taken against the leadership of Knysna to address this egregious breach of trust and ensure accountability for the safety and well-being of the community.”