{
  "id": 12622510,
  "title": "eThekwini mayoral candidates set out plans to fix water, billing and governance",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/ethekwini-mayoral-candidates-set-out-plans-to-fix-water-billing-and",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-07T12:11:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/thepost/news/2026-10-07-ethekwini-mayoral-candidates-set-out-plans-to-fix-water-billing-and-governance/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As the local government elections in eThekwini approach, three mayoral candidates are presenting their plans to tackle issues like water supply, billing, governance, and corruption. Former political leader and businessman Duduzane Hoosen announced his intention to invest R10 billion into repairing and replacing water pipes, implementing strict accountability measures, and stopping the theft of public funds. Hoosen vowed to create a special investigation unit to prioritize corruption allegations and promised to listen to residents in townships across the city.\n\nFormer provincial DA chairperson and pharmacist, Sanele Thakur-Rajbansi, pledged to resolve the city's water, electricity, and billing crisis by conducting a comprehensive technical assessment of physical and commercial losses. She emphasized the importance of accurate billing, improved meter verification, and a dedicated dispute resolution system to address outstanding debts. Thakur-Rajbansi also advocated for transparent performance agreements, regular scorecards, and ward advisory forums to ensure accountability and direct interaction between the mayor and residents.\n\nLastly, Lindiwe Mkhaliphi, a founding member of the EFF and former Ward 53 councilor, emphasized her commitment to driving positive change in eThekwini. She planned to introduce published performance agreements, regular scorecards, and ward advisory meetings to maintain transparency and engage with the public.",
  "summary": "Candidates contesting the eThekwini mayoralty have outlined competing proposals on water supply, municipal billing and accountability ahead of the 2026 local government elections.",
  "key_points": [
    "Duduzane Hoosen plans to invest R10 billion in water pipe repairs and accountability measures.",
    "Lindiwe Mkhaliphi proposes published performance agreements and ward advisory meetings."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}