ERMELO –Despite repeated requests, Msukaligwa Local Municipality (MLM) has failed to provide promised feedback on its Financial Recovery Plan (FRP), raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

Highvelder reached out to municipal spokesperson Mandla Zwane after the December 5 special council meeting, where MLM’s ongoing financial crisis and recovery efforts were discussed.

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Zwane assured a response would be shared following a Management Executive Committee meeting on December 9, but no feedback has been received.

Eskom debt continues to rise

The municipality’s electricity supply remains a critical challenge, with Eskom debt reaching an alarming R606.5 million as of September.

Between August and September, the municipality only managed to collect R316.3 million in electricity revenue and paid R305.3 million to Eskom—barely 50% of what was owed—leaving a shortfall of R301.2 million.

Escalating salaries and operational costs

Over the past five years, MLM’s salary expenses have surged by 26%, while overtime payments rose by 7%.

Standby and shift allowances saw a sharp 44% increase during the same period. T

hese rising costs have placed additional pressure on the municipality’s already strained finances.

Fruitless and wasteful expenditure persist

While there has been a notable decrease in unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, and wasteful (UIF&W) expenditures—down by R1.3 billion in the last financial year—critical issues remain unaddressed.

Officials responsible for financial mismanagement have not been held accountable, and efforts to recover misspent funds have been insufficient.

No progress on promised feedback

The municipality’s silence on these pressing matters is concerning, particularly given the assurance from Zwane that responses would be provided promptly.

The lack of communication reflects poorly on the MLM’s commitment to transparency and resolving the financial crisis.

Highvelder will continue to pursue answers and provide updates as the story unfolds.