Katlego Sekhu
Premier Lesufi said that he also experiences water shortages and had gone to a hotel to bath
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has issued a public apology following comments he made earlier today while addressing ongoing water challenges in the province.
The apology follows remarks Lesufi made while responding to an angry crowd during a visit by government officials to a reservoir in Brixton. During the engagement, the Premier said that he also experiences water shortages and, in some instances, had gone to a hotel to bath.
In a subsequent statement, Lesufi acknowledged that his reference to a hotel may have been interpreted as implying that the impact of water shortages differs according to social or economic standing. He said this was not his intention.
The Premier stated that water shortages and supply interruptions affect all residents of Gauteng, regardless of status, and reiterated that access to water is a basic human right. He said disruptions place strain on households, communities, businesses, and institutions across the province.
“The water challenges we are experiencing inconvenience everyone equally. No one is immune to the frustration and disruption caused by water shortages, and I regret any impression that suggested otherwise,” Lesufi said.
He further stated that the provincial government is working with municipalities, other spheres of government, and relevant stakeholders to address water infrastructure challenges and to stabilise supply.
Lesufi also thanked residents for their patience amid ongoing disruptions, saying that resolving water challenges remains a priority for the provincial government.
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