Follow your leaders’ example, Kouga DA.

Barry Vosloo

The former chairman of the Jeffreys Bay Residents’ Association (JBRA), Trevor Watkins, recently paid The Courier – Die Koerier a backhanded compliment when he wrote that the latter has “wreaked havoc within the ranks of the local DA.”

If Watkins’ perception is correct, The Courier – Die Koerier  owes its readers and the Kouga DA an apology. It was certainly not its intention to throw the local DA into disarray.

The only thing that might be construed as mildly critical of the Kouga DA in recent times is that The Courier – Die Koerier has been pleading with them to set up an efficient system to communicate with the people who voted them into office and who are contributing to their salaries.

Alas, it seems as if our pleas are falling on deaf ears. As recently as 22 February, Elza van Lingen MP reportedly told the audience at the Annual General Meeting of the JBRA to attend council meetings, ward committee meetings, DA branch committee meetings or to phone their councillor if they want to be informed.

Anyone with half a brain cell knows that Van Lingen’s suggestion is absurd.

For example, in the Kouga there is no council chamber large enough to accommodate even thirty non-councillors wishing to attend a council meeting. What happens if more turn up? And spare a thought for the poor councillor who will have to field countless telephone calls.

The Kouga DA should take its cue from the federal and provincial DA.

The former runs an outstanding website containing a myriad of up to the minute DA information of national relevance. Similarly the DA in the Eastern Cape Legislature regularly informs the voters of what happens at provincial level. 

Follow your leaders’ example, Kouga DA. If you do not have the expertise in your ranks, ask your local supporters for assistance to set up a communication platform on your behalf.