As various political parties start preparing for the forthcoming local government elections, expected to be held anytime between November 2026 and Jan 2027, local residents are already seeing a flood of top politicians ‘visiting’ the area to canvass support for their nominated candidates and party.
This follows the newly elected top brass of the Democratic Alliance (DA), including Geordin Hill-Lewis, Cilliers Brink, Solly Msimanga and other DA members, visiting the area this past Monday (April 13) for a ‘community engagement’ event at the Bethesda Revival Church in Laudium. According to a DA member, the politicians focused on the rising crime, with residents expressing concerns to the ongoing gang-related violence committed by foreigners affecting the area. The visit formed part of a broader campaign in Tshwane, where DA members met with residents to address safety challenges and discussed practical solutions.
Msimanga, addressed the gathering at the Bethesda Revival Church in Laudium this past Monday (April 13).
Discussions were centered on the urgent need for stronger law enforcement visibility, an effective Community Policing Forum and collaborative efforts between residents and local authorities to restore peace and stability in Laudium.
During the visit, the delegation also met with the family of the late Chilkana Bhaktawer, who was tragically murdered in March, allegedly by her estranged partner. The engagement highlighted the emotional toll that crime continues to have on victims and their families and reinforced the need for immediate and effective intervention to prevent further incidents of such crimes. Addressing the community, Brink (the DA Mayoral candidate for Tshwane) emphasised the DA’s commitment to improving safety and rebuilding trust within affected
neighbourhoods. He outlined key strategies aimed at tackling crime, including better resourced crime fighters and partnerships with community structures.
Brink also made a commitment to residents to assist with the installation of solar lights in parts of Laudium. The initiative is expected to improve visibility in poorly lit areas, contributing to safer streets and deterring criminal activity.
The visit formed part of ongoing efforts by the DA to engage directly with communities, understand their concerns, and implement solutions that prioritizes safety and wellbeing. Residents in attendance expressed hope that such initiatives will bring lasting change and help restore a sense of security in the area.
