ActionSA notes with deep concern the growing reports of political gatekeeping in community employment opportunities and alleged interference by ward councillors in the implementation of local projects. These reports, echoed through community outcries, especially in Region F suggest that job opportunities from government programs are being reserved for affiliates of certain political parties, to the exclusion of deserving residents.
Such conduct not only violates the democratic principles of fairness and non-partisanship but also goes against the very spirit of the Local Government: Municipal Structures Act, which mandates accountability, transparency, and equitable service delivery in local governance.
ActionSA stands firmly against the politicisation of employment opportunities emanating from initiatives such as the Community Work Programme (CWP), Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), and other public-private partnerships. These initiatives are designed to uplift entire communities, not to serve as a reward system for political loyalty.
We have received numerous complaints from ActionSA members and residents alike, who attest to a pervasive culture of favouritism in several wards. In some cases, individuals from other provinces have reportedly been brought in to fill local roles—depriving local residents of economic opportunities. This is a gross injustice and a betrayal of public trust.
Furthermore, allegations of councillors interfering in ward-based projects to favour supporters of a particular political party must be treated with the seriousness they deserve. While these remain allegations, we call for independent investigations and the swift implementation of corrective measures to restore integrity and fairness in these processes.
ActionSA remains resolute in our commitment to economic justice, ethical leadership, and non-racial, inclusive governance. We will continue to fight for fairness and equality, ensuring that every resident—regardless of political affiliation—has an equal opportunity to benefit from government programs designed to empower communities.
ActionSA calls upon the Officer of the Speaker and Section 79 Oversight Committees such as OCoL, Governance and Ethics to investigate these allegations of interference by councillors and implement corrective measures according to their findings. ActionSA further calls for a full and transparent report on their findings.
The time has come to put the interests of residents above political agendas. ActionSA will not rest until political interference in community development is eradicated and public trust in local governance is fully restored.
ActionSA Condemns Political Gatekeeping and Interference In Community-Based Projects
ActionSA notes with deep concern the growing reports of political gatekeeping in community employment opportunities and alleged interference by ward councillors in the implementation of local projects. These reports, echoed through community outcries, especially in Region F suggest that job opportunities from government programs are being reserved for affiliates of certain political parties, to the exclusion of deserving residents.
Such conduct not only violates the democratic principles of fairness and non-partisanship but also goes against the very spirit of the Local Government: Municipal Structures Act, which mandates accountability, transparency, and equitable service delivery in local governance.
ActionSA stands firmly against the politicisation of employment opportunities emanating from initiatives such as the Community Work Programme (CWP), Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), and other public-private partnerships. These initiatives are designed to uplift entire communities, not to serve as a reward system for political loyalty.
We have received numerous complaints from ActionSA members and residents alike, who attest to a pervasive culture of favouritism in several wards. In some cases, individuals from other provinces have reportedly been brought in to fill local roles—depriving local residents of economic opportunities. This is a gross injustice and a betrayal of public trust.
Furthermore, allegations of councillors interfering in ward-based projects to favour supporters of a particular political party must be treated with the seriousness they deserve. While these remain allegations, we call for independent investigations and the swift implementation of corrective measures to restore integrity and fairness in these processes.
ActionSA remains resolute in our commitment to economic justice, ethical leadership, and non-racial, inclusive governance. We will continue to fight for fairness and equality, ensuring that every resident—regardless of political affiliation—has an equal opportunity to benefit from government programs designed to empower communities.
ActionSA calls upon the Officer of the Speaker and Section 79 Oversight Committees such as OCoL, Governance and Ethics to investigate these allegations of interference by councillors and implement corrective measures according to their findings. ActionSA further calls for a full and transparent report on their findings.
The time has come to put the interests of residents above political agendas. ActionSA will not rest until political interference in community development is eradicated and public trust in local governance is fully restored.