Grin

KIMBERLEY – In a shocking turn of events that can only be described as trashy, the Sol Plaatje Municipality is now under the microscope for what residents are calling “Garbage Gate.” The scandal involves allegations of manipulated refuse collection routes, preferential treatment, and political harassment based on residents’ garbage affiliations.

Residents from swanky suburbs like Herlear and Beaconsfield have been airing their grievances, claiming that their garbage is being treated like VIPs, while the rest of Kimberley’s rubbish is left out in the cold. Reports suggest that refuse trucks are swerving from the official route plan, opting for detours that conveniently pass by private residences willing to, shall we say, ‘take out the trash’ in more ways than one.

The crux of the scandal centers around video evidence that caught a Sol Plaatje Municipality truck driver multitasking on the job—driving the garbage truck and chatting away on WhatsApp with a resident. While most people struggle to text and drive, this driver has elevated the game to a whole new level, hinting at potential backdoor dealings and the clandestine world of garbage-based negotiations.

Residents have also raised concerns about refuse helpers collecting hazardous waste, turning Sol Plaatje’s refuse trucks into mobile environmental hazards. One resident reportedly confronted a driver over excessive idling and diesel fumes, only to be met with a homophobic slur and allegations of being affiliated with the opposition party. It seems the Sol Plaatje Municipality is not just collecting garbage; they’re also throwing political shade.

Despite being reported to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and the local ward councillor, the municipality has yet to take out the trash on these serious allegations. In response, residents are demanding solutions faster than a landfill reaching capacity after a long weekend.

Calls for transparency have reached a fever pitch, with residents advocating for GPS trackers and dash cams on all municipal vehicles. The community is also pushing for a dedicated WhatsApp crime line—because nothing says ‘fighting corruption’ like sliding into the municipality’s DMs with a hot tip.

As the scandals continues to pile up, residents are demanding a thorough investigation into Sol Plaatje’s refuse collection practices. The municipality now finds itself in a tight spot, under pressure to clean up its act, restore public trust, and ensure garbage equality for all Kimberley residents. Until then, the stench of scandal lingers over the Diamond City, and it’s not just coming from the landfill.