Shocking figures highlighting the serious level of financial mismanagement in the ANC-controlled JB Marks Local Municipality came to light during today’s council meeting.
The bi-annual financial statements already reflect a budget deficit of R157 million for the current financial year. It includes shortfalls of between 20% and 28% on, among other things, the projected revenue from electricity, water and garbage disposal.
In addition, overspending of 13% on municipal service providers at R41 million per month, or R246 million for the half year, is also reported.
What makes these figures all the more shocking is the fact that the money is spent on tenderpreneurs providing services which the Municipality itself is supposed to provide.
Before the current financial year commenced in July 2023, the FF Plus had pointed out that the budget is unfunded and, therefore, violates municipal financial legislation.
The outcome of the ANC government in JB Marks’ apparent refusal to face reality and implement professional financial management principles is there for all to see.
The ANC in JB Marks’ mismanagement and constant looting of municipal tax money is further highlighted by the report of the Auditor-General (AG), which was tabled in the Council today.
The report exposes unauthorised, fruitless and irregular expenditure amounting to R898 million for the previous financial year.
The AG specifically also states that a lack of accountability in JB Marks has led to a pervasive culture of lawlessness in the Municipality.
No attempts have been made to hold those responsible for the financial decline and corruption in the Municipality accountable.
It is a disgrace that Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp residents have to endure the utter decline and looting of their municipal assets as a result of the unbridled greed and incompetence of the ANC in JB Marks. The FF Plus will keep fighting against the corruption and incompetence in the Municipality.
Voters should use the upcoming elections to replace the ANC with a strong and ethical coalition government, with the FF Plus as governing partner.