Secunda, July 21, 2025 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality has called on Executive Mayor Nhlakanipho Zuma to provide clarity on a tender for the refurbishment of bus shelters in Secunda. In a statement released yesterday, the DA revealed that a local business had offered to refurbish eight public bus stops at no cost to the municipality, requesting only the right to advertise on the structures.

According to Fiona Pelman, DA Councillor in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, the business’s proposal included structural repairs, repainting, roof and seating installation/repair, refuse bin placement and maintenance, and ongoing upkeep for three years.

However, the municipality’s Department of Planning and Development responded to the proposal by stating that an open tender for bus shelter rehabilitation was being compiled due to numerous similar applications. Despite this communication on March 5th, the DA reports that no such tender has been advertised, raising concerns about the municipality’s willingness to accept cost-free solutions for infrastructure improvement.

The DA highlights the dilapidated condition of bus shelters in Secunda and questions why the municipality appears hesitant to lease these structures to private entities willing to undertake repairs at no expense to taxpayers.

In light of these concerns, the DA has formally requested Mayor Zuma to report to the council with a detailed plan for the municipality’s bus shelters. They are demanding a clear timeline for the tender process if the municipality intends to involve private individuals in the refurbishment efforts.

The DA emphasises its commitment to holding public officials accountable and ensuring efficient infrastructure development in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality.