GOOD Statement by Donovan Saptoe,
GOOD Garden Route District Councillor
22 February 2023
The GOOD Party in George has opened a criminal case against DA ward councillor, Brendon Adams, for an alleged fraudulent petition aimed at closing down the local Rosina Tavern.
Despite it being a legal operation, the councillor started a petition against the tavern under the banner “Maak jou Buurt Veilig”, using different canvassers to source signatures from within the community.
This petition eventually became part of a court case against the business in an attempt to close it down. This was accompanied by a widespread social media campaign to spread allegations that the tavern is illegal and responsible for various problems in the area.
Following further investigation, GOOD confirmed that many of the signatures were not valid. It was revealed that some of these were plagiarised or even from underage children who did not have permission to sign.
Furthermore, it seems a false copy of the petition was finally submitted to the Municipality and used to initiate the legal action against the tavern. This has run up huge legal expenses for the Municipality – all based on a fraudulent document.
Apart from the criminal case, GOOD is also submitting a formal complaint against this councillor to the Speaker for a full investigation into their conduct.
The devastating impact that this matter has had on the small business operator is unacceptable, especially at a time when so many families are crumbling under the pressure of the rising costs of living. South Africa and local communities need small businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive if we are to turn around the economy and rising unemployment. People’s livelihoods should not be used in the selfish political games of their local public representatives.
Media Enquiries:
Donovan Saptoe, GOOD Garden Route District Councillor
Cell: 0824012935
Email: dsaptoe64@gmail.com
Janke Tolmay, GOOD Media Manager
Cell: 0733671223
Email: janke@forgood.org.za