New organisation formed to challenge Thembelihle’s ‘failing’ municipality

A wave of frustration and disillusionment has given rise to a new independent political movement in Thembelihle as residents say they have had enough of unfulfilled promises and persistent neglect.

The newly formed organisation, Onafhanklik, was officially launched with a clear mission to contest the 2026 local government elections and bring tangible change to a community that its founders say has been forgotten by those in power.

For years, residents of Thembelihle have endured the same struggles, such as intermittent water supply, unreliable electricity, poor sanitation, and deteriorating infrastructure. Many still live in dilapidated shacks that crumble with each passing season, while pothole-riddled roads, uncollected refuse, and illegal dumping sites have become part of the township’s landscape.

Adding to the frustration is the absence of essential services like ambulance response and consistent medical supplies at the local clinic. “We have watched the municipality make promise after promise, but nothing changes. Our people live in poverty and desperation while officials live comfortably,” said Ricardo Olyn, chairperson of the Onafhanklik party.

The group argues that the failure of political leadership has deepened inequality in the area. They point to growing foreign ownership of local business properties, saying local entrepreneurs are being left behind as land and opportunities slip further out of residents’ reach.

“We are tired of political parties that show up before elections and disappear once they are in office,” Olyn said. “Our community deserves better. We are the ones living with the consequences of poor governance, unemployment, drugs, and crime. No one from outside truly understands our struggle.”

According to the organisation, Onafhanklik, which means "independent", is not affiliated with any national political structure. Its founders insist their focus will remain squarely on Thembelihle and its people.

Their campaign slogan, “It’s time for Thembelihle to move forward,” reflects the party’s goal of restoring dignity and self-reliance through community-driven leadership. “Our mandate is local. We believe Thembelihle has endless possibilities if led by people who live here and understand what’s needed,” the statement concluded.

As the 2026 local elections draw nearer, Onafhanklik's emergence adds a new dynamic to Thembelihle’s political landscape, one born not from ideology but from the determination of ordinary residents demanding real change.