The DA in uMgungundlovu has written to the Acting Municipal Manager, Dr Xolani Muthwa to request clarity on the water debt owed to Umgeni-uThukela.
This follows a news article stating the enormous amount of R101m owed. The monthly legislated reports to council, as per section 71 of the Municipal Financial Management Act (MFMA) do not show this amount, which is a grave concern. Council must be shown true and transparent information.
The August 2023 section 71 report reflect the total creditor owing at R76m across all creditors, with only R23m over 30 days. This contradicts the information from Umgeni-uThukela Water quoted in the media article.
This matter needs urgent clarity as it affects the continuity of water supply and the bulk tariffs increases. It also raises concerns about transparency in reporting to council.
The DA will continue to hold those in power to account to ensure that there is no financial mismanagement.