FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
8 July 2026
AL JAMA-AH WELCOMES PUBLIC PROTECTOR’S FINDINGS AGAINST THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN AND CALLS FOR AN END TO THE POLITICS OF NEGLECT
Al Jama-ah welcomes the findings of the Public Protector that the City of Cape Town’s service delivery failures amount to maladministration. The report confirms what residents of many townships and historically disadvantaged communities have been saying for years: they have been neglected, overlooked, and denied the quality of municipal services that every resident deserves.
Al Jama-ah President Ganief Hendricks said the findings should serve as a wake-up call to every resident of Cape Town.
“The Public Protector has validated the lived experiences of thousands of residents who have endured inadequate service delivery for far too long. No community should be treated as second-class, and no South African should receive inferior municipal services because of where they live.”
For too many years, the Democratic Alliance-led administration has overseen a city where the contrast between affluent suburbs and many township communities has become increasingly apparent. While some areas continue to receive investment and maintenance, many working-class communities continue to battle deteriorating infrastructure, poor sanitation, unreliable services, and inadequate municipal attention.
Al Jama-ah believes every resident—regardless of race, income, or postcode—is entitled to equal dignity, equal municipal services, and equal investment. “The City exists to serve all its people, not only those living in wealthy suburbs or areas that attract tourists. Municipal government must prioritise people before politics and ensure that every community receives the same standard of service delivery,” said Hendricks.
The Public Protector’s findings should not simply result in another report gathering dust. They must lead to accountability, corrective action, and a fundamental change in the way Cape Town is governed.
Al Jama-ah believes that the time has come for a new administration that places fairness, equality, and human dignity at the centre of governance. The current approach has failed too many communities for too long.
As local government elections approach, Al Jama-ah calls upon residents of underserved communities to raise their voices and use the power of their vote to demand a municipality that serves everyone equally.
“We call on every resident living in neglected communities to stand together and vote for change. Every vote is a voice against inequality and a vote for a city where no child, no family, and no community is left behind.”
Al Jama-ah remains committed to building a Cape Town where service delivery is based on need, not neighbourhood; where municipal resources are distributed fairly; and where every resident is treated with equal respect and dignity.
Issued by: Al Jama-ah Communications Office
On behalf of:
Ganief Hendricks
President, Al Jama-ah