Cape Town - Strandfontein resident and WCED analyst Riyad Isaac, who is contesting the local government elections as an independent candidate for the ward 43 communities of Strandfontein, Schaapkraal, Weltevreden Valley and Philippi, says he is intent on bringing positive change.
After representing employees in high-level discussions and negotiations as a shop steward for several trade unions, including the National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (Nehawu), Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (Hospersa), National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (Nupsaw), and his work at the WCED’s head office, Isaac implored residents of ward 43 to get to know him and his background during his campaign.
Isaac previously canvassed for the Good Party in Strandfontein and was a member of Cope before deciding to distance himself from the “party political baloney” that surrounds party members and their mandates.
“I do not have to seek a mandate from a party first. I am able to react immediately to the needs of the community. I am of the opinion that many political parties make empty promises to secure votes and after the elections you do not see them anywhere near you.
“I have already created several platforms whereby community members can share their compliments or complaints with me directly,” said Isaac.
Isaac said key challenges he would address were the social-ills, the plight of the elderly, the development of a community radio station, decent roads and lights, improvement of the Strandfontein Sports Field, exploring opportunities for a Business Development
Hub (for job creation) and working with communities and law enforcement agencies to rid communities of drug dens.
“I am committed to bringing about positive change within my ward. My word is my honour and would like to leave behind a legacy whereby people would remember me for always being truthful, transparent, honest and reliable in a time of need,” said Isaac.
Strandfontein resident Deidre Beck said Isaac showed great interpersonal and communication skills after taking time to help residents understand how certain processes work.
Schaapkraal resident Shiehaam Moos said: “From personal experience, I can vouch that Riyaad is a person with high morals and integrity. Riyaad assisted me in many instances where he advised on municipality issues, educational issues, medical issues, and the list is endless.”