Ramaphosa vows capable, ethical and accountable local government

ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of building a capable, ethical, stable, and accountable local government during his unveiling of the party's manifesto ahead of the upcoming local government elections on 4 November. The ANC's six action areas encompass community participation, providing quality services, and building municipalities led well and run honestly.

Ramaphosa highlighted that leadership matters greatly for the success of a municipality. Even with sound budgets, skilled employees, and good plans, if political leadership is divided, corrupt, weak, or indifferent, the municipality will fail. Communities deserve leaders who serve with integrity.

To ensure accountability, the ANC plans to introduce a monitoring mechanism that will track implementation in every municipality from the day of governance. Each municipality will have its own manifesto, monitored by the Secretary-General's Office, allowing communities to see what was promised, what has been achieved, and what remains to be done.

The ANC's six key actions include providing reliable water, sanitation, and electricity services, boosting local economic growth and job creation, building safer communities, intensifying the fight against Gender-Based Violence, reviewing the municipal funding model, and intensifying efforts to combat corruption. Additionally, the party intends to place communities at the center of decision-making.

Residents will gain greater oversight of municipal performance through improved systems for reporting and tracking service delivery. The ANC-led municipalities will digitize business services, set clear turnaround times for planning approvals, building plans, and rezoning permits. Ramaphosa stressed the importance of quick service, ensuring that people will not have to wait indefinitely to receive their licenses.