North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane, is under fire from opposition parties after reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to the R15 billion Urban Blue Gas-to-Power Plant project in Matlosana.
The project, initially handed over to the City of Matlosana earlier this year, was paused for public consultation and legal compliance. However, Lenkopane’s recent announcement that it will proceed has sparked fierce criticism from opposition leaders, who accuse the ANC-led department of mismanagement and neglect.
Opposition Slams Project and Spending
During a heated debate, Lerato Tsholo of the MK Party condemned Lenkopane’s approach, stating, “The statement made by the honorable MEC is uncalled for. If it was not because of her high-handedness and arrogance, this matter would not be on a public platform.”
Johanna Steenkamp of the DA criticized the department’s budget allocation, which increased by 6% to over R1 billion, questioning its effectiveness. “After listening to your speech, I can confidently say [we get] a track record of failed projects, unkept promises, and misaligned spending. You cannot spend your way out of failure without fixing the failures first,” she said.
Michal Groenewald of the FF Plus warned of potential international repercussions, accusing the department of violating treaties. “The international community will not bankroll incompetence. We risk sanctions, funding withdrawals, and reputational damage—all because this ANC-run department cannot meet its most basic mandate. This is not governance; this is organized neglect.”
MEC Defends Project Amid Criticism
Despite the backlash, Lenkopane insisted the project would bring economic benefits. “Amongst others, the 18 investment projects brought hope to the people of the North West in terms of job creation,” she said, acknowledging public concerns but emphasizing efforts to ensure legal compliance.
Energy expert Prof. Roelof Burger supported the project, calling it “a step in the right direction” for stabilizing the province’s energy mix but stressed the need for thorough community engagement.
What’s Next?
The department aims to finalize consultations with stakeholders before proceeding. However, with strong opposition and allegations of mismanagement, the project’s future remains contentious.
For now, the North West government is pushing forward—but whether it can address critics’ concerns while delivering on its promises remains to be seen.
