As search and recovery efforts continue in the flood-ravaged Eastern Cape, Tambo District Municipal Manager Basil Mase has refuted allegations that displaced residents are being mistreated in temporary shelters. The claims arose after flood victims were reportedly moved multiple times between community halls, guest houses, and B&Bs without adequate provisions.
Shelter Chaos and Accountability Questions
During a televised interview, Mase acknowledged logistical “glitches” in relocating displaced families but denied instructions forcing them to leave behind donated mattresses and blankets. He admitted that a failed payment arrangement with guest houses led to people being temporarily returned to a community hall with concrete floors and insufficient bedding.
“Yes, there were glitches yesterday,” Mase said, attributing the mishap to poor communication between the district municipality and the national Department of Human Settlements. He assured that the issue had been resolved by morning, with affected individuals moved to paid accommodations and provided food and blankets.
However, eyewitness reports contradicted parts of his account, with journalists documenting bare floors and distressed families, including infants, left without proper bedding during the transition.
Funding and Transparency Concerns
Pressed on financial accountability, Mase deferred questions about funding to the national government, stating that the municipality was not responsible for payments to guest houses. He emphasized that intergovernmental collaboration was underway but could not specify when funds would reach the municipality or how much had been allocated.
“We will account for every cent, as we did during COVID-19 relief in 2022,” Mase asserted, defending the municipality’s track record. Yet, public frustration is mounting over delayed mobile services—such as Home Affairs trucks for ID replacements and death certificates—which remain inconsistently available despite promises.
Community Trust at Stake
Critics argue that the repeated disruptions and lack of visible government aid risk eroding trust. Mase, however, insisted services were being delivered, citing mobile health clinics and Home Affairs assistance. “We are on the ground every day,” he said. “Our communities know we are working for them.”
As recovery efforts continue, all eyes remain on the Tambo district’s ability to uphold its commitments—and whether national intervention will bring the stability flood victims urgently need.
