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This morning I signed an agreement with Mr Willem Adams, the Chairperson of the Karoo Ontwikkelingsparty (KOP), in terms of which the DA and the KOP will again establish a coalition government in Laingsburg.

After the 2016 Local Government Elections, the DA and KOP did enter into a coalition agreement, but unfortunately during the course of 2017, a number of challenges caused it to be terminated, where after the KOP entered into an agreement with the ANC.

Due to a number of factors, this agreement was not sustainable. Hence the KOP and DA agreed that it will be in the best interest of the community of Laingsburg to again join hands.

In terms of the agreement, Cllr Johannes Mienies from KOP will serve as Mayor, whilst the DA will be represented by Cllr Bertie van As as Deputy Mayor and Cllr Wilhelm Theron will again take the Speaker’s Chair.

An important element of the agreement, is that the crucial position of Municipal Manager will be filled by a person with the necessary knowledge and experience in local government and administration.

This will ensure that every decision and instruction given by the Council will meet the required legal prescripts.

The KOP must be commended that they took definite steps against the previous Mayor and member of KOP, who demanded that his friend who did not meet the minimum qualification requirements, be appointed as Municipal Manager.

The DA welcomes the fact that the KOP took a firm stand against corruption and abuse of power. It is important that the Council of Laingsburg as soon as possible, will implement the necessary financial turnaround strategy so that the Council can be governed sustainability.

It is very important for the Western Cape Government that a stable environment for governing be established in Laingsburg, not only to ensure quality service delivery to the diverse community, but also to entice developers to invest in the town and its environs.

The growth of the local economy is the only road out of poverty and unemployment. Laingsburg is the most important economic link between the Cape (Town) and the Karoo. A stable Council with a team of supportive officials led by a competent Mayor and Municipal Manager, is the first link in this economic value chain.

On behalf of the DA, I would like to thank the Karoo Ontwikkelingsparty for their willingness to again work with us. This Agreement means that the DA now governs all 30 Municipalities in the Western Cape either on its own or in Coalition with other parties, like the KOP.

Issued by DA