EAST LONDON- Residents in Scenery Park in East London are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress on major demands in Ward 5, despite promises from Ward Councillor Monica Goci.
The community is fed up with the apparent inaction and silence from the councillor’s office, which has led to rising tensions and divisions within the community.
The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) of the John Dube Branch has issued a pressing appeal to Councillor Goci, highlighting the unresolved matters in Ward 5.
One of the key issues is the outdoor gym park, which was ceremonially opened in May 2024 but remains closed and inaccessible to the public. The ANCYL describes the initial opening as ‘political theatre’ that failed to translate into real service delivery.
Branch secretary of the ANCYL in John Dube Luzuko Diniso had this to say on 11th August, “We are extremely frustrated with the lack of leadership and intervention from your office and the broader municipal structures. The community is fragmenting, with neighbour turning against neighbour and it’s imperative that immediate action is taken to address the current unrest and divisions in Ward 5.”
The ANCYL is also calling for action to address the degradation of the Scenery Park Sports Field, which has been vandalized and neglected. “We are committed to holding leadership accountable to the people, and we demand immediate and transparent action in the interest of peace, development and dignity of all residents of Ward 5,” said Diniso.
The community’s frustration is palpable and it’s clear that something needs to be done to address the issues in Ward 5.
The ANCYL’s appeal to Councillor Goci is a call to action and it’s up to the councillor’s office to respond and deliver on the promises made to the community.
Photograph: supplied
