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Yesterday in council, the DA voted against the approval of additional funding in excess of R184 million to complete the construction of the Polokwane Softball Stadium.

R85 million was earmarked to build an international softball stadium funded by the MIG (Municipal Infrastructure Grant), the project was plagued with issues ranging from vandalism, business forum stoppages, Covid and cash flow challenges by the contractor.

84% of the contracted amount has already been paid and the project’s physical progress is only at 43%. The contractor has since terminated his contract with the Municipality.

The latest assessment to complete the project within the current scope amounts to an additional R184 329 922,60 of which the municipality would have to co-fund an amount of R90 683 471,83, which would severely impact other approved capital projects also being funded from the Integrated Urban Development Grant (IUDG).

Projects currently funded by IUDG range from roads projects, waste transfer stations, electrical infrastructure and other rural sports facilities.

The DA opposed the approval and subsequent rubber stamping of the additional funding and vehemently voted against the approval of additional funds.

We believe the scope should be dramatically reduced in order to complete the project and avoid the project ending up as a white elephant and will demand that the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) investigates the matter.

Although we understand that sport is effective in promoting physical health and fostering social cohesion, this cannot come at the cost-of-service delivery to the ratepayer.

We cannot afford other crucial projects to be affected by the incompetence, poor planning and mismanagement deficiencies of this ANC-led administration.

Issued by Jacques Joubert - DA Caucus Leader- Polokwane Local Municipality