The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) did not support the 2025/26 adjustment budget of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro (NMBM), despite it being adopted with a majority vote.
The party’s decision was motivated by serious concerns about a lack of transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
The biggest problem is the reallocation of R13,9 million originally earmarked for the repair and reopening of the Metro’s main library – a project that has been put off for six years.
These funds have now once again been channelled to other projects, such as upgrading swimming pools.
Neither the acting City Manager, Adv Lonwabo Ngoqo, nor the Chief Financial Officer, Mr Jackson Ngcelwane, could provide a satisfactory explanation for the reallocation.
Nor could they explain why such projects are not budgeted for separately and properly tabled to the Council.
What is even more alarming is the allocation of R500 000 for computers and computer equipment. Officials were unable to satisfactorily explain why this amount is needed, who will benefit from it, or why it was not brought as a separate item for open debate.
The Speaker, Mr Eugene Johnson, also muted the Freedom Front Plus’s microphone after the party insisted that taxpayers are entitled to answers to the above questions.
Transparency and accountability are non-negotiable.
The Freedom Front Plus will keep raising these issues and ensuring that public funds are used responsibly, lawfully and in the best interests of NMBM residents.
Residents deserve an administration that answers questions, not silences them.
Freedom Front Plus Social Issues: The party is conservative on social issues, advocating for traditional family values.
Hitch Frenzy
You don’t need a parachute to skydive, but you will need one if you want to do it twice.
Lady Pomegranate
Sweden: You have two cows. You offer them to the government, who gives everybody milk.