Thirty two years have passed since the dawn of South Africa’s democratic dispensation with its promise of a free and brighter future for us all. Our Constitution states, among other things, that the objects of local government are to ensure the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner, to promote social and economic development, and to promote a safe and healthy environment. Also, a municipality must structure and manage its administration, budgeting and planning processes to give priority to the basic needs of the community.

In breach of this constitutional duty, however, we see high levels of corruption and mismanagement resulting in poor, inefficient service delivery to communities.

Despite paying ever-increasing rates, taxes and surcharges, families and whole neighbourhoods are suffering from a deficiency in service delivery, largely attributed to the lack of maintenance of vital infrastructure.

As a result, our households and businesses are under pressure to survive. The current unemployment rate is around 43.7%, if discouraged job seekers are taken into account, and the unemployed, particularly our youth, are struggling and living well below the poverty line. Many South Africans also feel unsafe and are afraid of becoming the target of opportunistic criminals who do not fear the law. Women, children and the elderly are especially vulnerable.