A groundbreaking event for Local government took place today when the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs unanimously passed the Municipal Systems Amendment [Bill 22 of 2010]. The Bill is aimed a professionalising local government for improved service delivery and performance management.
“Local government will never be the same again. This Bill will open a new chapter in local government and help turn it around into a responsive, accountable, efficient and effective local government system that will help accelerate service delivery and the building of a better life for all”, said Acting Minister Nathi Mthethwa.
The aim of the Bill, amongst others, is to
- professionalise local government by ensuring that the administrative apparatus of municipalities is staffed by appropriately qualified and competent persons to improve on service delivery
- require employment contracts and performance agreements of municipal managers and managers directly accountable to municipal managers to be consistent with the uniform systems and procedures set nationally
- extend the Minister’s regulatory power to make regulations relating to macro benefits such as medical aid and pension benefits after consultation with the Minister of Health and Finance
When the Bill becomes an Act, it will usher in a new era of local governance in the country – a huge achievement for local government after 10 years of democratic local governance in South Africa. The passing of the legislation follows extensive consultations with various stakeholders since 2009.
Enquiries:
Mbulelo Musi (Mr)
Head of Communication (Ministry)
Cell: 082 338 3890
Tel: 012 334 0518
