The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) voted against the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality’s budget because it is unfunded and unsustainable.
The ANC and EFF approved the budget with a shortfall of approximately R515 million, despite serious concerns about its legality and sustainability in terms of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA).
The Municipality itself acknowledges its dire financial position. Debt currently amounts to R7,6 billion, with debt to Eskom and Rand Water alone standing at approximately R6,6 billion.
Payments to service providers are not made on time, which could result in additional interest charges and possible legal action. In addition, a serious cause for concern is that the Municipality may not be able to meet its financial obligations as required by the MFMA.
Despite all this, residents are hit with new tariff hikes as from 1 July 2026:
• Electricity: 12,74%
• Water: 11%
• Sewerage: 3,7%
• Refuse removal: 3,7%
These increases come while communities are already grappling with water shortages, power outages, deteriorating infrastructure and rising living costs.
Moreover, the Municipality indicated that certain projects and activities will have to be postponed due to cash-flow constraints, which puts service delivery and infrastructure maintenance at even greater risk.
The Freedom Front Plus believes residents deserve a budget based on realistic revenue projections, responsible governance and sustainable service delivery.
The party will keep opposing decisions that are financially unlawful and irresponsible, while pressing for better financial oversight and accountability.
Govan Mbeki residents should not have to keep paying the price for the ANC’s years of maladministration and misguided priorities.
Residents deserve a municipality that is accountable and that puts service delivery first.
On 4 November, residents have the opportunity to vote for the Freedom Front Plus and elect an administration that prioritises honest financial management, sustainable infrastructure and the community’s interests.
