Residents of Northriding, north of Johannesburg, and Westbury, west of the Johannesburg central business district say they demand accountability for service delivery challenges plaguing the communities from the Democratic Alliance who retained power of the wards following the 2026 local government elections.
For almost five years, the community of Northriding, which falls under ward 134, have faced a number of service delivery challenges, in particular ongoing water cuts and throttling.
Some parts of the area have been without water for the past seven days.
Community member Herman Mpinga says residents are tired of government’s empty promises. “We respect the democratic process, but our expectations this new term must bring greater accountability and tangible improvement in service delivery. One of our biggest concerns remains the ongoing water challenges and residents cannot continue living with uncertainty to access to such a basic necessity. We need proactive leadership, communication and constructive working relationships with Johannesburg Water and other municipal entities simply escalating problems is not enough. Residents need a solution and measurable progress.”
Meanwhile, the community of Westbury is hoping that the DA will work harder and increase service delivery in the area.
For years, the community has faced numerous challenges, particularly around water shortages, high unemployment rates and gun violence.
The DA managed to secure the majority of the votes in ward 69 with 35%, followed by the ANC with 20.1% and ActionSA with 15.2%.
Community leader Jefferson Jhonson, says the DA has its work cut out for it if they really want to effect change in the area.
“Firstly, unemployment is one of the major problems that we have; also service delivery in our area is putrid. The DA has been running Ward 69 and we have had endless issues. There is the crime and unemployment. I hope and pray that the DA will address all that and make sure that they fight for us and make sure we solve all these problems.”