MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in Mpumalanga, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni has called on all communities to participate in the establishment of Ward Committees. Municipalities are required by law to establish Ward Committees as a way of encouraging community participation in municipal matters. Ward Committees are constituted by ten.
In Mpumalanga the election process is underway in the 17 local municipalities. Ms Mtshweni appealed to all communities to participate by voting for their preferred candidates who will make a meaningful contribution in improving the lives of communities in their wards.
“Part of the role of a Ward Committee is to identify and address the needs and challenges of the community, disseminate information about municipal affairs and ensure a harmonious interaction between the community and the local municipality.
It is the responsibility of the community in the ward to elect people who will work towards the attainment of this purpose,” Ms Mtshweni urged. She also appealed for co-operation between the communities and the candidates for a successful process.
The elections are to be concluded at the end of December 2016. Elected members will attend an induction programme between January to March 2017 to prepare them for their roles and responsibilities by COGTA and municipalities to serve in the committee with efficiency for a period of five years.
Enquiries:
George Mthethwa
Tel: 013 766 6572
Cell: 083 302 2774
E-mail: gpmthethwa@mpg.gov.za
