The subpoena compels the Municipality’s leadership to appear before the Commission on Wednesday, 27 August 2025, at the Commission’s boardroom in East London. This follows ongoing complaints regarding persistent service delivery failures that infringe the rights of residents in Makhanda and Alicedale.
Despite written submissions received in September 2024, complaints continue regarding inconsistent water supply, non-functional wastewater treatment plants, the persistence of the bucket system, delayed infrastructure upgrades, inadequate water relief interventions, and weak communication with affected communities.
The Commission has directed the Municipality to provide progress reports on previous commitments, including water supply statistics, wastewater infrastructure status, bucket eradication, infrastructure project timelines, staffing capacity, and engagement with affected communities. These failures undermine rights enshrined in the Constitution, including the right to water, dignity and a clean and safe environment. Failure to comply with the subpoena without just cause is an offence in terms of section 22 of the SAHRC Act and may result in fines or imprisonment.
The details of the subpoena hearing are as follows:
- Date: Wednesday, 27 August 2025
- Time: 09H00
- Place: 3-33 Philip Frame Road, Waverly Office Park, Chiselhurst, East London
The subpoena hearing will also be live streamed on the Commission’s YouTube channel @https://www.youtube.com/@SAHRC1, and proceedings will be shared on all SAHRC platforms.
The Commission will continue to hold municipalities accountable for service delivery failures that violate human rights.
Ends
For further information, contact the SAHRC Provincial Manager, Dr Eileen Carter @ 043 722 7828 or email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and Senior Legal Services Officer, Loyiso Mpondo @ 043 722 7828 or email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.