The Pietermaritzburg High Court has today announced that judgment on the Democratic Alliance (DA) case against the Msunduzi Local Municipality for their R27 million sponsorship to embattled Royal AM is, reserved.
The court will notify all parties of the outcome/judgment in due time.
This sponsorship is illegal and irrational, we are hoping that the judgment will put the interests of residents first and stop the ANC from continuously exploiting the city for the benefit of those who are politically connected.
Their argument that the sponsorship has economic benefit is purely based on opinion not on fact or any research findings.
The Msunduzi Municipality’s priorities are misplaced, with sponsorship of a soccer team owned by a wealthy businesswoman taking precedence over essential services.
There is no political will from the ANC to stop this disgraceful sponsorship with the Acting Municipal Manager having done little to nothing to ensure that it is discussed and ultimately terminated.
The Municipal Finance Management Act (56/2003) clearly outlines the duties and responsibilities of the Municipal Manager, including strategic management of service delivery, financial management, and accountability.
The Act also emphasizes the importance of ensuring that services are delivered in a sustainable and equitable manner.
Given the current state of the city and Msunduzi history of being placed under administration, it is concerning that the ANC leadership and the Municipal Manager are prioritizing unnecessary expenditures over essential services.
Residents of Msunduzi deserve better from the Acting Municipal Manager, and it is crucial to hold him and the ANC leadership accountable for their actions.
It is unacceptable that the municipality has failed to deliver basic services, such as maintaining clean and safe environments, repairing damaged roads, and supporting local businesses.
The Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu-Natal will not stop the fight until this sponsorship is terminated and monies are spent on services for residents of Msunduzi.
The 2026 Local Government Elections are an opportunity for Msunduzi residents to send a clear message to the ANC and vote for a government with a proven track record of good governance.