CRITICAL CRISES FACING SA'S MUNICIPALITIES

UNETHICAL practices, poor accountability, a broken social contract with communities and the weak integration of traditional governance systems are among the challenges facing South African municipalities.

- THAMI MAGUBANE

This is according to a discussion document released as part of the review of the White Paper on Local Government.

The Department of Cooperative Governance has commenced the process of reviewing the White Paper on Local Government, which is expected to be completed next year.

The review process will examine the funding model of municipalities and could lead to the closure of municipalities that are failing to provide services.

The discussion document notes that there is reasonable concern and widespread doubt about the ability of most municipalities to perform effectively.

"Manipulation and methods aimed at maintaining power and/or rapid enrichment have spread, resulting in corrupt, nepotistic, and unethical activities within municipalities. Many political leaders have continued to turn a blind eye to these practices, especially when municipal resources have been used and abused to fund party political operations and campaigns," it said.

The poor relationships with citizens are also a significant issue. "There is a large divide between many municipalities and their communities, including residential, business, university, and institutional communities. The fact that, as of 2024, households owe municipalities a staggering R230.5 billion (74% of total municipal debt) is an indicator of the broken social contract," said the discussion document.