The ANC/EFF coalition in the Mogale City Local Municipality (Krugersdorp, Magaliesburg, Muldersdrift) is crumbling after the EFF refused to approve the adjustment budget during a council meeting on Wednesday.
Consequently, the Speaker, Doreen Davids, has to submit an application to the Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Jacob Mamabolo, to postpone approval of the adjustment budget.
This turn of events has far-reaching consequences for service delivery.
In terms of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), the Council had until 28 February to adopt the adjustment budget. The process must also comply with the provisions of the Municipal Systems Act to support transparency, accountability and sound financial management.
This was an ideal opportunity for minority parties to amend the adjustment budget for residents’ benefit, but it could not be done because a large number of DA members were absent.
The ANC used its majority to adjourn the council meeting just as a decisive debate was at hand.
Political instability should never undermine service delivery. The Municipality urgently needs to be stabilised, especially with major strategic decisions lying ahead.
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) will remain true to its principles while promoting voters’ interests.
