Godongwana rejects proposal to scrap provinces, citing constitution

FINANCE Minister Enoch Godongwana has rejected the idea of submitting a proposal to the Cabinet that would pave the way for the abolition of some provinces.

- MAYIBONGWE MAGHINA

Godongwana said the decision is rooted in constitutional obligations that define the powers and functions of the three spheres of government.

He indicated that the abolition of provinces would necessitate a constitutional amendment, which was a process that falls under Parliament.

The minister was responding to EFF MP Omphile Maotwe, who enquired in parliamentary questions whether the minister will consider proposing to the Cabinet to do away with provinces in order to strengthen local government as part of cost-cutting measures.

Maotwe also asked Godongwana what would be his reason for not scrapping provinces when the abolition of provinces could be the only viable way to enhance the capacity of local government.

In his written response, Godongwana said Section 40(1) of the Constitution establishes three distinct, inter-dependent and interrelated spheres of government - national, provincial, and local.

He said each sphere was assigned specific powers and functions, with an obligation to cooperate in the execution of concurrent functions.