The ANC’s latest proposal to possibly merge Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni into one giant mega metropolis demonstrates that the party is still trying to solve the wrong problem.
The people of Gauteng do not need bigger municipalities, but rather smaller, more efficient and more accountable local governments.
If a resident already finds it difficult to have problems such as water leakages, sewage spills, potholes and refuse removal resolved, the answer is not to increase the distance between that resident and the decision-makers. A mega municipality with millions of residents will remove local government even further from the communities it is supposed to serve.
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) believes that the opposite approach should be followed; government should be brought closer to grass-roots level.
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Metropolitan councils should rather be decentralised through establishing strong, functional sub-councils with real decision-making and executive powers.
Where metros have become too large and unmanageable, the possibility of unbundling and creating smaller, more accountable municipalities should be seriously investigated.
Structures alone cannot save Gauteng. The real solution lies in radically restoring municipal functionality, repairing dilapidated water, sewerage, road and electricity infrastructure as well as forming partnerships with the private sector to improve efficiency, where possible.
Municipalities should focus on their key responsibilities, eliminate corruption and political interference, and create safe, well-governed communities in which businesses can invest, flourish and create jobs.
Gauteng does not need a bigger, but a better, government.
The Freedom Front Plus endeavours to close the distance between decision-makers and residents through smaller, more accountable municipalities where infrastructure is routinely maintained and the private sector has leeway to drive the economy and job creation.
A failing system should not be made bigger. Instead, it should be made smaller, smarter and more functional.
