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In a media statement released today, the President of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, (SACCI) Mr Chose Choeu said:

The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) congratulates the political parties and the citizens of South Africa on the fair, free and peaceful local government elections that took place on 18 May. This is indicative of the democratic progress that the country is experiencing.

The new office bearers and Councillors face a challenging five years and considerable pressure will be placed on them to improve service delivery at local level. In particular SACCI believes that in order to provide an environment that is conducive to economic growth that will facilitate business development and hence job creation and the reduction of poverty, local governments will have address the following areas as a priority:
• Appoint competent staff that are appropriately qualified and experienced, to fill the many vacancies that currently exist in local government and ensure that they are accountable and adhere to service level agreements.
• Address shortcomings in financial management and administration and appropriately deal with fraud and corruption thereby ensuring clean audits.
• Contain the cost of doing business by keeping utility tariffs and rates and taxes at reasonable levels, smoothing the licensing process and cutting red tape.
• Road maintenance and water and electricity supply and quality.
• Consult and work together with stakeholders, particularly chambers of commerce, in the development and implementation of development plans and local economic development strategies.

Business is prepared to assist local government and looks forward to the successful implementation of the local government turnaround strategy that will ensure a better life for all.