Mchunu hits back at ActionSA over Giyani Bulk Water Project legal threats
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu has accused ActionSA of trying to score cheap political points by threatening to take legal action over the failed Giyani Bulk Water Project.
The water project, spearheaded by the Lepelle Northern Water Board, began seven years ago under then-water and sanitation minister Nomvula Mokonyane.
It has, however, been beset by corruption, with costs ballooning from R2.2bn to R3.2bn over the years.
The project was intended to supply water to 55 villages.
The delays and claims of corruption led to the roping-in of the SIU, which instituted legal action for the repayment of over R2.3 billion by three individuals who are former Lepelle Northern Water employees.
This week ActionSA spokesperson in Limpopo Sello Lediga said the party would turn to the courts if the people of Giyani remain without a reliable water supply.
"March has come and gone, and the people of Giyani are now asked to wait another year, and Mchunu still has his job. If Minister Mchunu is incapable of taking his job seriously, we will create a situation where he is compelled to deliver water to the people of Giyani.”
But Water and Sanitation spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi said while it’s no secret that the project had been beset by problems, the minister had made it a priority to fast-track its completion.
"The various components of the project have their own set timelines. Timelines range. Some of the projects will be due to be completed in December this year. There is a dependency. One component is dependent on the other. Other parts of the project will be completed in July next year," Mogotsi said.
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