The DA calls on KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) CoGTA MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, to urgently intervene as budget processes within the ANC-run eThekwini Metro become increasingly shambolic.
The DA is aware of massive issues which place the metro at risk of not legally finalizing the budget process. This includes the constant postponement of public participation.
To not allow eThekwini residents to express their concerns is both unlawful and extremely unfair, particularly as proposed increases on services are much higher than the consumer price index (CPI).
The handling of matters to date smacks of an incompetent ANC that does not care. If due process is not followed, eThekwini’s residents will find themselves living in a municipality that will go from bad to worse.
The DA expects the MEC to act immediately. We also remind her that if processes are not adhered to, provincial government will be forced to intervene in terms of Section 139, placing the metro under administration.
The people of KZN – along with eThekwini’s residents – deserve a government capable of handling a process as straight forward as a budget. They also deserve to be heard.
When the people of KZN go to the polls on 29 May, they will have the opportunity to rescue our province and install a people-centred government that takes residents’ views seriously.