Note to editors: Please find attached an English soundbite by Cllr Thabo Nthapo and Sesotho by Karabo Khakhau MP.
Letsemeng Local Municipality finds itself in a state of disarray due to its failure to convene a crucial meeting, which was intended to address compliance deadlines and evaluate the execution of its budget plans. This state of disarray jeopardizes the well-being of the community potentially leading to basic service delivery breakdowns.
The issues at hand include:
- Budget Timelines: Mayor Bonolo Mocwaledi was expected to present budget timelines, a full 10 months prior to the budget tabling, as mandated by MFMA Sec 21.
- Budget Process Plan: The mayor is required to adhere to the Municipal System Act of 2003 Sec 21 when preparing the annual budget.
- Financial and Non-financial Reports: Section 52d necessitates the submission of financial and non-financial reports to the mayor, which are essential for tracking expenditures against the adopted budget. Failure to comply puts national treasury grants at risk.
Of great concern is how the municipality will explain its failure to meet these compliance deadlines to the MEC, and the potentially damaging impact this could have on the municipality’s audit opinion. Adding to the complexity, the Municipal Manager (MM) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) are under suspension, and revenue collection stands at a worrisome 40%, far below the required threshold.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is committed to holding the ANC accountable and ensuring the municipality’s stability. We will report the non-compliance to the Auditor General’s office and urge the ANC to put aside their differences for the sake of the Letsemeng community.
The DA appeals to all community members to register and support a party that prioritizes service delivery and the fundamental needs of the Letsemeng community. It is imperative that we elect representatives who genuinely care about our community’s welfare.