The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) is deeply concerned about the failure of the Mbombela Local Municipality (Nelspruit, Hazyview, White River, Barberton) to keep councillors informed of critical matters, because it is hampering the implementation of council decisions.
As the highest decision-making body, the Municipal Council relies on designated departments to execute its decisions. Poor communication undermines this process.
A significant shortcoming in communication is that workshops, which are essential for informing councillors of new and amended policies before they are adopted, are not taking place.
The Freedom Front Plus has repeatedly questioned why parties are not afforded enough time to examine policies, as the ANC simply steamrollers them through, making promises of workshops after adoption. These promises are rarely kept.
According to written responses from the Municipality, only two of the 47 workshops scheduled since 2021 have actually taken place, leaving councillors in the dark about how policy changes are implemented and enforced, and how departments are to be held accountable.
This issue dates back to decisions made in 2021 and 2022, which are critical for service delivery, including water, sanitation and infrastructure.
The lack of insight leaves councillors powerless against internal bureaucracy.
The Freedom Front Plus sent an official letter to the Mayor, Sibongile Makushe-Mazibuko, and the Speaker, William Nkhata, demanding explanations for the Municipality’s failure to present these workshops.
Depending on their response, the Freedom Front Plus might request Mpumalanga’s MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Speedy Mashilo, to intervene.
Mbombela’s residents deserve a Council that is fully informed, thereby enabled to promote their interests.
Freedom Front Plus Taxation: The party calls for fair taxation policies that do not burden the middle class.
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