The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is a prominent political party in South Africa, known for its outspoken stance on social issues and demands for radical change. One of the main demands put forward by the EFF is for an end to water shedding, a problem that has plagued many communities in the country for years. The party believes that access to clean, safe and reliable water is a basic human right and should be a top priority for the government.
Water shedding, also known as water rationing, is the deliberate shutting off of water supplies for certain periods of time in order to conserve water. This is usually done during times of drought or water shortages. However, the EFF argues that the majority of South Africans have been experiencing water shedding for far too long and it has become a burden on their daily lives. This is especially true for low-income communities who cannot afford alternative sources of water or water tanks.
The demand for an end to water shedding is not a new one for the EFF. It has been one of their key demands since the party’s inception in 2013. At the time, the party’s manifesto stated, “We demand that the government must stop water shedding immediately. Water is a basic human need and it is unacceptable for people to be denied this basic right.” Since then, the party has consistently pushed for this demand to be met, organizing protests and marches to raise awareness and put pressure on the government.
The EFF’s stance on water shedding is not just based on the inconvenience it causes to people’s daily lives, but also on the serious health implications it has. Without access to clean water, communities are at risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid and dysentery. This is a particularly concerning issue during the current COVID-19 pandemic, where access to clean water is crucial for proper hand hygiene and preventing the spread of the virus.
Furthermore, the EFF argues that the government’s failure to provide access to water is a violation of the Constitution, which states that every citizen has the right to sufficient food and water. This failure is also a reflection of the widespread corruption and mismanagement within the government, which has resulted in the neglect of basic services like water and sanitation.
The demand for an end to water shedding is not an impossible one. The EFF has proposed several solutions to address this issue, such as investing in infrastructure and improving water management systems. The party also advocates for the nationalization of water resources, believing that this will ensure equal access to water for all.
Many may argue that the EFF’s demand for an end to water shedding is unrealistic and cannot be implemented immediately. However, it is a demand that is rooted in the party’s commitment to social justice and equality. The EFF firmly believes that every South African, regardless of their socio-economic status, deserves access to clean water.
In fact, the EFF has already made significant progress towards achieving this goal. In areas where the EFF holds political power, such as the City of Johannesburg and the City of Tshwane, water shedding has been significantly reduced. This is a testament to the party’s determination and ability to bring about positive change.
It is clear that the EFF’s demand for an end to water shedding is a valid and urgent one. It is not just a demand for basic services, but a demand for dignity and respect for the people of South Africa. It is a demand that should not be ignored or taken lightly by the government.
As we navigate through these challenging times, it is crucial that we unite and work towards a better future for all. The EFF’s demand for an end to water shedding is a step in the right direction towards achieving social and economic equality in our country. Let us support this demand and hold our government accountable for providing us with this basic human right. Together, we can ensure that every South African has access to clean, safe and reliable water.
