During a special council meeting of the eThekwini Metro, the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) clearly stated that the party simply cannot support the proposed 2026/27 budget.
The party objected to the Black Economic Empowerment policies, which benefit only certain politicians, as well as the tariff increases that cause mounting financial pressure on residents.
The proposed increases include approximately 2,5% in property rates, 9% for electricity and 10% for water.
Access to sufficient water is a basic human right and the fact that more than half of the Metro’s potable water is lost due to leaks and other factors make this increase unacceptable.
The GO!Durban bus project has cost more than R9 billion since 2012, but it still does not offer reliable alternative transport for commuters.
Many residents still have to use no less than three taxis to reach their workplaces, while the Metro has only managed to properly tar approximately two kilometres of road in the past year.
The Freedom Front Plus also warned that the illegal influx of people is placing enormous pressure on the Metro’s infrastructure.
Moreover, the party expressed concern about the Metro’s outstanding debtors, which have grown to more than R45 billion over the past three years.
Clearly, the ANC cannot be trusted to successfully govern the Metro for the people’s benefit.
Residents have an opportunity on 4 November to join forces with the Freedom Front Plus and bring about a positive change in eThekwini.
