BHISHO – Communities across the Eastern Cape are struggling to cope with the devastating aftermath of recent floods, which have left families displaced, infrastructure in ruins and essential services overwhelmed. The province’s healthcare system is buckling under the strain, with roads collapsed and villages remaining inaccessible.
Rural and peri-urban areas have been the hardest hit, with many residents left without access to clean water, shelter or food relief. Amid this crisis, concerns are growing over the 34-day absence of the Premier of the Eastern Cape Oscar Mabuyane who reportedly stepped away from office to attend to personal and cultural responsibilities.
A political party United Democratic Movement(UDM) in the Eastern Cape has expressed deep concern over the leadership vacuum created by the Premier’s extended absence during a time of emergency.
According to UDM provincial secretary Bulelani Bobotyane, “The people of the Eastern Cape need responsive and visible leadership now more than ever.”
“As one of the poorest provinces in the country, with chronic underdevelopment and soaring youth unemployment, the Eastern Cape requires decisive government action to address the crisis. Communities in regions such as OR Tambo, Alfred Nzo, Amathole, and Chris Hani are pleading for basic necessities and support,” Bobotyane added.
Furthermore, citizens and civil society are now calling for full accountability from provincial leaders and an urgent, people-focused disaster recovery plan that prioritizes infrastructure repair and service delivery.
The province’s residents demand action and support to rebuild their lives.
Photograph: UDM EC Provincial secretary Bulelani Bobotyane
By:Jamie-Lee Sias
03 July 2025
