BLOEMFONTEIN, Free State — The Afrikan Alliance of Social Democrats (AASD) held its highly anticipated AASD manifesto launch in Bloemfontein, with former Mangaung Mayor Pappie Mokoena outlining the party’s strategic vision and policy priorities ahead of the upcoming local government elections.
Addressing a gathered crowd, Mokoena positioned the AASD as a competent, accountable, and capable alternative, emphasizing a return to a government that is truly “of the people and by the people.”
Restoring Governance and Accountability
A central pillar of the AASD manifesto launch focused on strict governance and the protection of civic duty. Mokoena highlighted the tragic reality of three individuals in Mangaung who were killed for trying to do the right thing, noting that their murders remain unsolved.
To combat this culture of impunity, the party pledged to fiercely protect whistleblowers and loyal municipal employees. Mokoena stressed that the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) must serve as a practical tool for community engagement rather than a mere compliance exercise. Furthermore, the AASD promised strict consequences for non-performance, warning that failure to implement expected programs results in budgets being returned to the national treasury.
Prioritizing Public Safety and Restorative Justice
Addressing community safety, the former mayor promised safer neighborhoods equipped with proper street lighting and a collaborative approach with Gender-Based Violence (GBV) activists. The office of the mayor, under an AASD leadership, would work directly to restore public order.
Mokoena also outlined a progressive approach to law enforcement within Mangaung and Malut Apo. “We make sure that laws are implemented but are not punitive,” Mokoena explained. “You don’t get punished, but you get corrected for us to rebuild a safe and secure Mangaung that looks after its people.”
Empowering Youth, Securing Land, and Climate Resilience
The manifesto placed a heavy emphasis on the future of the municipality’s youth and children. Mokoena argued that a municipality should be judged by how it nurtures its young people, providing them with positive outlets—such as cultural participation as *mahosi anga* or drum majorettes—to combat disaffection and hopelessness.
On the housing and environmental front, the AASD committed to accelerating access to safer land with appropriate services. Mokoena condemned informal settlements for undermining human dignity and called on communities to work alongside the municipality to build a “green and resilient Mangaung.” Acknowledging climate change as a critical global challenge, the party pledged to find secure, sustainable living spaces for residents.
Grassroots Action and the November 4 Call to Action
Demonstrating the party’s grassroots commitment, Mokoena shared a recent initiative where the AASD raised funds to send two disadvantaged young people to a matric camp. The students’ families could not afford the R4,000 to R5,000 fees, but the party stepped in to ensure they could participate and prepare for their exams.
Looking ahead to the November 4 local government elections, Mokoena issued a strong call to action, urging voters to choose long-term prosperity over short-term handouts.
“Do you want to vote for a secure future for me, or do you want to vote for a food parcel?” Mokoena quoted, challenging parents to consider the legacy they are leaving for their children.
Highlighting the party’s experience in finance and municipal systems, Mokoena assured voters that the AASD would not “experiment with your future.” The manifesto launch concluded with a rallying cry for the people of Mangaung to reclaim their dignity, mobilize their communities, and “vote for hope, not vote for despair.”
