Local government is where the promises of democracy must become visible in people’s everyday lives. It is where communities should experience reliable water and electricity, safer streets, clean public spaces, functioning infrastructure and real opportunities to build better lives. Yet, for too many South Africans, municipalities have become symbols of neglect, corruption, political interference and broken promises.

BOSA’s Local Government Manifesto presents a practical plan to change this. It sets out our commitment to build municipalities that put people before politics, appoint skilled professionals, spend public money responsibly and hold leaders accountable for measurable results. Our approach focuses on restoring reliable basic services, strengthening local economies, supporting entrepreneurs, creating safer communities and ensuring that every councillor remains accessible and answerable to the people they serve.

This is more than a collection of political promises. It is a clear programme of action—practical, funded and time-bound—built around the realities facing communities across South Africa. Street by street, ward by ward and municipality by municipality, BOSA is ready to rebuild local government and make it work for all.

Explore the manifesto and discover how we will put people first, deliver better municipalities and build a better South Africa.

Issued by BOSA