OPINION: Let the people choose their mayors
The current election season demonstrates why reform is necessary.
The article argues that South African municipalities should allow citizens to directly elect their mayors, as opposed to the current system where political parties select the mayoral candidates. It highlights the growing spotlight on mayoral candidates as political parties unveil their preferred candidates for the 2026 Local Government Elections, but points out that voters are still denied the right to directly vote for the mayors.
The author claims that this disconnect has resulted in a revolving door of mayors, with mayors being removed and replaced without any direct mandate from voters. They argue that a directly elected mayor would derive legitimacy from the people and be accountable to the community, leading to improved transparency, increased voter engagement, and better leadership through candidates presenting detailed plans on key issues.
Brief written by urgent.news from SABC News's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
