LGE 2026: Current Ward 18 councillor standing for re-election
She says since 2016, she has worked to represent the community, tackle service delivery challenges and ensure residents’ concerns are heard.
WITH the 2026 Local Government Elections just around the corner, councillors will be elected for all district, metropolitan and local municipalities across the country’s nine provinces. The Highway Mail asked councillor candidates for Ward 18 why voters should vote for them in the upcoming Local Government Elections and what experience they bring which will help them perform at their best as councillors should they be elected.
Melanie Brauteseth (DA) said Ward 18 residents deserve a councillor who listens, takes action and holds the municipality accountable.
“Since 2016, I have worked to represent our community, tackle service delivery challenges and ensure residents’ concerns are heard.
“I understand the realities facing our neighbourhoods and know the history of long-term issues facing all areas of the ward due to my 10 years of experience as the ward councillor.
“My background in operations administration, health and safety, and compliance equipped me with practical problem-solving skills and with my decade of experience I have an in depth understanding of municipal processes.
“I have worked on service delivery issues ranging from water and sewage infrastructure to electricity, road maintenance and public safety, while advocating for greater accountability and improved municipal services as well as long-term solutions to these in many instances.
Also read: LGE 2026: Meet ActionSA’s representative for Ward 18
“I believe effective councillorship is about being accessible, and demanding accountability.
“My priorities remain reliable service delivery, safer and cleaner neighbourhoods, well maintained infrastructure and the revitalisation of Pinetown.
“I believe lasting progress comes from building strong relationships with residents, businesses, stakeholders and NPOs.
“By working together, sharing resources and fostering a spirit of collaboration, we can address community challenges more effectively and build a safer, cleaner and more vibrant Ward 18.
“Strong communities are built when we stand together with a shared commitment to making a difference.”
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