The Merafong City Local Municipality has issued an official response to allegations made by the Greater Fochville Water Crisis Forum in a media release dated 12 November 2025. The municipality states that the claims circulated by the forum are misleading, defamatory, and misrepresent the legal matters currently before the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria. The latest statement was released on 14 November 2025.

Clarification on Legal Proceedings

According to the municipality, its leadership approached the Gauteng High Court on 9 November 2025 seeking an interdict to prevent individuals from obstructing the delivery of water to Kokosi residents.The matter, described as urgent, was heard in open court and postponed to 13 November 2025 to allow respondents to file their papers.

The hearing was later adjourned due to procedural issues raised by the respondents’ legal representative, after which the matter was reassigned to a new presiding judge. The court also instructed the municipality to file an affidavit clarifying procedural aspects of its initial application.

The municipality emphasised that it is legally represented by a reputable law firm from its official panel of attorneys, rejecting any suggestions that challenge the legitimacy of its legal representation.

Response to Accusations and Public Statements

The municipality strongly disputes the allegations made by the Greater Fochville Water Crisis Forum. Officials say the accusations, directed at the municipality, its leadership, and the legal process are false and misleading.

The statement also notes concerns over claims that the municipality failed to consult residents or avoided accountability, describing such assertions as inaccurate and unfounded.

Condemnation of Personal and Political Attacks

The municipality condemns what it calls politically motivated attacks on Municipal Manager Dumisani Mabuza, who initiated the court application in his capacity as accounting officer.

The statement further rejects allegations that Mr. Mabuza and the Executive Manager for Energy Services, Mr. Gubevu, are sourcing water tankers from Mpumalanga or KwaZulu-Natal based on provincial preference. These claims are described as baseless, malicious, and harmful to community unity.

The municipality warns that such allegations promote division and tribalism, which it says has no place in local governance.

Commitment to Transparency and Public Communication

Merafong City Local Municipality maintains that it has kept residents informed through public notices, media statements, and community engagements concerning water supply challenges, particularly those linked to Rand Water restrictions and infrastructure limitations.

Residents are urged to rely only on verified information from official municipal communication channels.

Assurance of Continued Service Delivery Efforts

The municipality reaffirms its commitment to:

• Restoring order

• Ensuring continuous delivery of water services

• Protecting municipal infrastructure and personnel

• Preventing obstruction, intimidation, and misinformation

The Office of the Executive Mayor states that efforts to stabilise water supply and improve service delivery remain ongoing.

Final Thoughts

The latest communication from Merafong City Local Municipality aims to clarify its position regarding the legal proceedings and public statements made by the Greater Fochville Water Crisis Forum. As tensions surrounding the region’s ongoing water challenges continue, the municipality emphasises lawful governance, transparency, and the importance of accurate information while legal and service delivery processes unfold.

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