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The DA-led Theewaterskloof Municipality has approved the write-off of R141.2 million in historic debt that is no longer legally or practically recoverable, allowing the municipality to maintain accurate financial records and strengthen its ability to collect revenue going forward.

This is not a blanket debt amnesty. The write-offs relate to debt that qualifies under the Municipality’s Debt Write-off Policy, including deceased estates, qualifying indigent households and accounting adjustments. Current municipal accounts remain fully payable, and the municipality will continue to pursue all recoverable debt.

The approved write-offs include:

- Provision for bad debts: R116 324 669.38
- Deceased estate accounts (553 accounts): R16 963 157.39
- Indigent debtors: R7 937 583.28
- Accounting adjustment: R1 814 679.62

This bold but responsible decision forms part of the Municipality’s commitment to restoring financial stability while placing residents at the centre of good governance.

By removing debt that is considered irrecoverable under the Municipality's policy, the municipality can maintain a more accurate debtor's book, improve financial reporting and focus its debt collection efforts on recoverable accounts.

The DA also encourages all residents whose municipal account holders have passed away to come forward and update their details on the municipal database. Keeping ownership records current is essential to ensuring accurate billing, protecting the interests of families and maintaining reliable municipal records.

Residents are encouraged to visit their nearest municipal office with the necessary supporting documentation so that accounts can be transferred or updated where applicable.

We invite every resident to partner with us in rebuilding a municipality that works by:

- Updating municipal account information.
- Paying current municipal accounts on time.
- Reporting faults and service delivery concerns.
- Working together to restore financial sustainability.
- Rebuilding trust between the municipality and its communities.

The DA-led Municipality remains committed to responsible governance, sound financial management, improved service delivery and transparent leadership.

Issued by Nicholas Myburgh - DA Constituency Head: Theewaterskloof