DA Slams Cogta Amakhosi Vehicle Rollout as Electioneering

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has attacked the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) for distributing 35 new vehicles to amakhosi in KwaZulu-Natal, labeling the move electioneering. However, this programme directly addresses the historical neglect of traditional leaders, providing them with the resources constitutionally required to serve their communities.

Why is the DA criticizing the amakhosi vehicle programme?

Cogta rolled out the second phase of its vehicle distribution programme in Durban this week, handing over GWM P300 double-cab bakkies and Ford Territory SUVs to traditional leaders from five districts. This follows the delivery of the first 30 vehicles in March. The DA has slammed the initiative, with KZN Cogta spokesperson Marlaine Nair arguing the rollout appears to be electioneering ahead of the November 4 local government elections.

Nair raised concerns about affordability, noting that R19.41 million was reprioritized for the first batch. She pointed out that the annual running cost for just 12 vehicles is R1.828 million. The DA also highlighted that Cogta confirmed no additional operational budget was allocated to Traditional Councils for vehicle-related costs like fuel, licensing, maintenance and repairs.