GOOD Statement by Marius van Stade
GOOD Stellenbosch Municipality Councillor
17 February 2026
GOOD Stellenbosch Councillor Marius van Stade has formally requested an independent investigation from the Municipal Manager of the Stellenbosch Municipality, Geraldine Mettler, following serious allegations published by The Cape Independent regarding a possible water crisis and governance failures.
Reports suggesting that Stellenbosch could have as little as 40 days, or even seven days, of potable water remaining are deeply alarming. Whether these claims are ultimately proven true or false, the seriousness of the allegations demands urgent, transparent, and independent scrutiny. The public deserves verified facts and clear answers.
GOOD is therefore calling for an independent audit conducted by external professionals with no ties to the Municipality. The investigation must assess dam levels, bulk water storage, monitoring systems, infrastructure, and augmentation projects, as well as engineering capacity and all water-related expenditures and tenders since 2019. The full findings must be made public.
Water management is a technical and highly specialised discipline that requires professional oversight. Allegations that experienced engineers were forced out through constructive dismissal practices, and that recruitment processes were obstructed raise serious concerns regarding institutional capacity. If engineering expertise has been weakened, the consequences extend beyond politics; they pose significant risks to public health, economic stability, and long-term sustainability. An independent investigation must, therefore, include a comprehensive skills audit, a vacancy analysis, and an assessment of whether professional standards have been compromised.
Water security is not a political issue; it affects every household, business, and farmer in Stellenbosch. It is not a partisan issue; it is a matter of public survival. If the allegations are found to be false, an independent investigation will help restore confidence and stability. If they are true, decisive corrective action must follow without delay.
The GOOD Party will utilise every available oversight mechanism to ensure transparency, accountability, and the protection of essential public infrastructure within the Stellenbosch Municipality.
Water is life. The people of Stellenbosch deserve the full truth. Governance failures in this domain cannot and will not be tolerated.
Media Enquiries: media@forgood.org.za