EFF accuses government of not supporting Eastern Cape flood victims

By Johnathan Paoli

The Economic Freedom Fighters has slammed the government’s absence from flood relief centres in Mthatha, condemning the failure of both provincial and national authorities to support grieving families with burials or basic assistance as “a sign of a lack of compassion and humanity”.

EFF leader Julius Malema accompanied by secretary-general Marshall Dlamini and AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo, visited the hardest-hit communities in the area following flooding.

They reiterated their condolences to the families and communities devastated by the disaster.

“The most disheartening aspect of the visits was the absence of government officials at the centres and the lack of involvement of both provincial and national government in assisting these families with burials while their lives have been torn apart,” said EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo.

Malema and his delegation toured flood relief centres housing displaced residents and attended the funeral of Siyavuya Mkatshane, a 14-year-old boy who died