The ActionSA in KwaZulu-Natal has strongly condemned public works MEC Sipho Nkosi for allegedly holding talks with construction syndicates.
The party’s provincial chairperson, Zwakele Mncwango, expressed concern about the government’s decision to legitimize criminal organisations, noting that these groups are responsible for disrupting construction projects in parts of the province.
Mncwango stressed the need for government to prioritize the protection of construction projects and inspire confidence in potential investors.
“It is a cause for grave concern that instead of cracking down on these criminals who not only halt construction but also create fear and uncertainty amongst potential investors, the KZN government is beginning to recognize such groups as a structure in our community that needs to be negotiated with as a legitimate entity,” Mncwango said.
“While we encourage government’s commitment to working with formal business forums, and for there to be government intervention where there is a need for local empowerment, especially amongst groups who were previously disadvantaged, we vehemently reject the notion of meeting with criminals and seeking to reach an agreement that favours them in any way.”
He pleaded with government to re-evaluate its strategy and avoid becoming an accomplice to these illegal activities by participating in any business transactions with these “construction mafias.”
Mncwango also noted that ActionSA would diligently observe the actions of Nkosi and ensure that he does not perpetuate additional criminal behaviour.
“In a recent interview, Minister of Public Works Sihle Zikalala said his department is cracking down on these syndicates and that there have been over 200 arrests countrywide.
“Furthermore, he said that his office would be collaborating with the police in order to deal with this economic sabotage.
“The ‘construction mafia’ has been holding service delivery to ransom in KZN and other parts of the country for far too long, and it cannot continue unabated. It certainly should not be encouraged as the MEC is doing.
“ActionSA, as a party committed to the rule of law, will monitor the MEC’s actions to ensure that he does not wilfully make the KZN government complicit in this criminality by doing any business with these construction mafias.”
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