In preparations for the 2016 municipal elections, the Minister has, after consultation with the MECs responsible for local government in the provinces, requested the Municipal Demarcation Board, in terms of section 22 of the Municipal Demarcation Act, to review the viability and sustainability of a number of municipalities across the country. The Municipal Demarcation Board has the responsibility and power to determine and to re-determine municipal boundaries.
In developing the Back to Basics programme, there was a review of the financial viability (among other factors) of all municipalities in the country. It is clear that certain municipalities are not financially viable.
Where a municipality is both weak on functionality and viability then they could be considered for amalgamation with another local municipality, or even to be designated as a District Management Area. This could result in a decrease in South Africa’s 278 municipalities.
On the Malamulele matter:
On 5 August 2014, a meeting took place between the Malamulele Task Team and the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. It was understood by all roleplayers at the meeting that in terms of South African law, matters concerning the boundaries of municipalities are dealt with in terms of the Municipal Demarcation Act.
It was noted that the Municipal Demarcation Board had commissioned a study into the feasibility of the proposal by the Malamulele Task Team for the establishment of a stand-alone municipality. The Municipal Demarcation Board is convening shortly to consider the final report on the feasibility study, whereafter the Board will make arrangements to engage with the task team. In this regard, we appeal to the various roleplayers in Malamulele to allow the Municipal Demarcation Board to conclude that process.
We call on all persons involved to exercise leadership and discipline by not engaging in activities that jeopardise the safety and well-being of any persons, and especially the education of our children. While there is a broader understanding that communities exercise their right to protest, that should not impact on the rights of others to go to their respective work places and most fundamentally the rights of learners to receive their education.
Media enquiries:
Director-General
Mr Vusi Madonsela
Zodwa Mogola
Cell: 076 981 1533
