“If your administration fails to deliver on the promises it has made, will you step down?”

The IOL eThekwini mayoral debate on Wednesday saw several candidates from various parties discuss their plans to tackle challenges facing the city. A key question posed to the candidates was whether they would step down if they failed to deliver on the promises made during the campaign.

ActionSA's Zwakele Mncwango pledged to ensure politicians do not interfere with the municipal administration, stating they would draw the line between their role as politicians and an oversight role. If he fails to meet party targets, Mncwango would step down as mayor.

uMkhonto weSizwe Party candidate Thami Mkhize opposes cadre deployment, believing it damages the administration. He advocates for hiring individuals based on merit, with a minimum qualification of a master's degree for the mayor, a policy already implemented within his party.

ANC's Thabani Nyawose emphasized the importance of experience, having already invested money in addressing the city's water issues. They have facilitated 98 boreholes and have comprehensive plans to tackle water-related problems. Nyawose believes infrastructure will be replaced if the party secures the November 4 election.

Democratic Alliance's Alicia Kissoon, a DA disciplinary committee chairperson in the province, vowed to remove anyone who does not adhere to the constitution and laws if her party wins the upcoming local government elections. She also stated she would step down as mayor if she fails to meet party targets.

Economic Freedom Fighters' Hlengiwe Mkhaliphi pledged to remove officials who are not performing in her administration, stating they would not tolerate laziness. She also committed to ensuring no one becomes a slave in the city when her party takes power.

Lastly, the IFP's Selvan Govender highlighted the importance of understanding how the municipality operates for voters to make informed decisions when casting their ballots. He advised that removing a mayor requires a motion of no confidence and caucus support, which is only possible if the party secures a majority of seats in the municipal council.