The ANC in the Western Cape says former member and councillor in the Matzikama Local Municipality, Jan Koopman’s move to the DA is motivated by “personal interests” and “financial guarantees”.
Koopman resigned from the party on Thursday “after careful consideration of what the DA has set out to do in Matzikama that his personal values and aspirations for his community are aligned with the DA’s beliefs and objectives”, said DA provincial leader Tertuis Simmers said.
“Koopman resigned both his membership of the ANC and from his position as a councillor, as he is no longer willing to be part of ANC efforts to obstruct the progress that the municipality is making.
“The DA in Matzikama welcomes councillor Koopman as a pioneer for his community.
“Since the DA-led coalition took over two years ago from the PA/ANC coalition, the municipality has made enormous strides to fix internal systems and financially save the municipality from bankruptcy.
“This entailed difficult decisions that had to be made,” said Simmers and constituency head Thomas Walters in a joint statement.
The ANC welcomed Koopman’s resignation, with West Coast acting regional secretary Immanuel Adams saying: “This resignation comes as no surprise, given the mounting pressure from his constituency due to his failure to credibly and efficiently perform his duties.
“Councillor Koopman’s resignation is a clear indication of the self-interest that has taken precedence over the well-being of the community he was entrusted to serve.
“We remain committed to restoring integrity, transparency, and accountability to Klawer and the effected surrounding communities in ward 6, and ensuring that the voices of the people are not silenced by those who seek to exploit public office for personal gain.”
The party said Koopman’s resignation will not deter its fight for a government that works for the people.
“We urge the voters to remain vigilant as we strive to rebuild trust in our institutions.”
Koopman did not respond to requests for comment by deadline on Thursday.
Cape Times