Tensions boiled over at Sebothoma Hall in Temba Unit D on Tuesday evening when a community meeting intended to address ongoing water challenges descended into chaos after the expected keynote speaker, Tshwane Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya, failed to arrive.
Residents had gathered at the hall for a public participation session scheduled for 17:00, where the mayor was expected to address concerns about water shortages in the area. The Member of the Mayoral Council (MMC) for Water and Infrastructure, Mr Frans Boshielo, had been announced as part of the delegation accompanying the mayor.
However, by the scheduled start time, the mayor had not arrived, prompting frustration among community members who had anticipated her presence. MMC Boshielo attempted to address the gathering in her absence but was immediately met with loud boos from the crowd.
When he appealed for calm and asked residents to allow him to speak, the situation escalated rapidly. Angry community members charged toward the stage, destroying the podium and table settings. Delegates seated at the front were forced to flee as the crowd chased them out, bringing the meeting to an abrupt, chaotic end.
Residents made it clear that they rejected the delegation led by MMC Boshielo, insisting they had gathered specifically to hear from the mayor.
Community members interviewed after the incident expressed deep frustration over ongoing water shortages. They said they were unwilling to be addressed by officials they felt could not provide meaningful solutions.
“We are not prepared to be addressed by the MMC. He has nothing to tell us,” said Meshack Tshabalala, a resident. “He stays in Pretoria East and has water to wash. We have not washed, as you see us here, because we do not have water.”
Residents also raised concerns about the removal of water trucks that were supplying water to the community. They demanded the immediate return of the trucks, saying their removal has left them without a reliable water source.
Local councillor Ms Nthabiseng Mahlangu said, to her understanding, the private water tanks were withdrawn due to budget constraints.
Community members also raised concerns about changes to the water supply system. They alleged that the municipality withdrew privately contracted water trucks and indicated that municipal trucks would replace them. However, residents claim the municipal trucks are not sufficient to meet the community’s needs.
“They must bring the municipal trucks but continue with the private water supply trucks because they were servicing us adequately,” said Mr Tshabalala.
He further stated that the community has gone without water for two weeks.
City Responds
In a media statement issued on the evening of 13 April 2026, MMC for Community Safety and Region 2, Ald Hannes Coetzee, confirmed that the meeting had been postponed following what he described as disruption by a “small group of individuals” engaging in aggressive and unlawful behaviour.
According to the City, the meeting was adjourned in the interest of public safety and has been postponed until further notice.
The City condemned the disruption, stating that it undermined a lawful platform for community engagement. It further said the conduct did not reflect the majority of residents, whom it described as peaceful and law-abiding.
Coetzee acknowledged the presence of MMC for Utility Services, Cllr Frans Boshielo, and other officials who were prepared to engage residents on water supply challenges.
The City reiterated its commitment to addressing water issues in Hammanskraal and Region 2, citing ongoing infrastructure interventions and accelerated repair plans. It also warned that any criminal damage, intimidation, or disruption of municipal processes would be dealt with in accordance with the law.