The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) is seriously concerned about the ongoing veld fires affecting Franschhoek, which have already caused extensive damage.
These fires pose a direct threat to the community’s historical heritage, infrastructure and unique natural environment.
The fires, which began on 7 January 2026 in the Langrug area, have since destroyed more than 17 000 hectares amid harsh weather conditions characterised by high temperatures and strong winds.
The scale of the damage demands immediate attention and accountability.
The veld fires already destroyed unique vegetation and historical properties. Residents have been forced to evacuate their homes, while emergency services and volunteers worked under enormous pressure to protect lives and property.
The Freedom Front Plus calls for a comprehensive, independent investigation into the origin and progression of these fires. While natural factors and challenging terrain play a role, the public deserves full transparency and answers about the circumstances that resulted in this disaster.
The party appeals to the national and provincial governments – including the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the Cape Winelands District Municipality and Stellenbosch Municipality – to immediately launch an investigation into the matter.
The recent visit by the Department’s Deputy Minister, Narend Singh, to the incident command post in Wemmershoek underscores the national significance of the fires, but it has to translate into concrete action and accountability.
The Freedom Front Plus further calls on the Stellenbosch Municipality to ensure full compliance with the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) and all relevant regulations for the management of alien and invasive species.
Proactive enforcement of these legal frameworks is essential to reduce future fire risks and protect our unique fynbos ecosystems.
The Freedom Front Plus will support affected residents, and calls on all stakeholders to collaborate on facilitating the recovery and conservation of the environment.
The courage and dedication demonstrated by firefighters, emergency personnel, volunteers and residents are commendable and inspiring.
The Freedom Front Plus expresses its sincere gratitude for the helpers’ tireless efforts and wishes all affected parties the best.
Freedom Front Plus Disaster Management: The party advocates for effective disaster management strategies.
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